Method and apparatus for conducting a game tournament

ABSTRACT

A player is permitted to play in a tournament involving one or more instances of an online game. In one specific example, the player may choose, at a point of sale (POS), a tournament option that permits the player to play in a tournament-style game involving multiple game instances of a primary game. In one example, the primary game is a slot machine type game. In this way, the player may be permitted to enjoy the feeling of playing in a tournament against other players in the environment of an online game. In another example, the primary game result is driven by the result of a secondary game, such as a lottery or casino-based drawing (e.g., a Keno drawing). The secondary game is then played, and the result of the overall tournament is determined based on the results of the secondary game instances. Results of the secondary game instances and the result of the tournament are sent to an online gaming system. The player is then permitted to play an online game to reveal the results of the secondary game instances and the result of the overall tournament.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/130,796, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDUCTING AGAME OF CHANCE,” filed on May 16, 2005, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/002,727, entitled “METHOD ANDAPPARATUS FOR CONDUCTING A GAME OF CHANCE,” filed on Nov. 30, 2004 whichclaims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/569,030, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FORCONDUCTING A GAME OF CHANCE,” filed on May 7, 2004, each of whichapplications are herein incorporated by reference by their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention relates generally to lotteries and gaming,and more particularly, to systems for conducting lottery-based games orcasino-based gaming.

BACKGROUND

There are many different types of games that are provided that involvethe issuance of a lottery ticket to play a game of chance. Lotterytickets are sold through retailers using machines referred to as pointof sale (POS) terminals. These tickets are generally printed at the POSterminal, and are usually issued for some lottery drawing to beperformed at a later time. Examples of these types of lottery games ofchance include traditional state lottery drawings and multi-statelottery drawings (e.g., PowerBall). Another type of lottery ticket,referred to in the art as instant lottery, includes a pre-printedscratch-type lottery ticket which includes a latex or similar coatingthat is scratched off by a purchaser (a player), revealing one or moregame indicia and whether the player won the game or series of games asindicated on the ticket. The indication is generally “instant” in thatthe player knows, when they scratch off the ticket coating, whether ornot they won the game.

There are many online games that can be played using a computer systemcoupled to a communication network (e.g., the Internet). These games mayinclude traditional games of chance, games of skill, and casino-typegames, among others.

Some systems combine lottery-type games and online games. In one suchsystem, a lottery ticket is sold to a player, who then plays a furthergame using a computer system. In such a game system, the ticket sold toa player includes a code which is correlated to a game seed stored in acomputer system upon which a computer game is played. The computer gamedetermines the correlated game seed, and this game seed is mapped to aseries of predetermined game states that lead to a predeterminedoutcome. That is, the code stored on the ticket includes the outcome. Inanother type of system, the code stored on the ticket is an encoded formof the lottery result, which is then revealed to the player at the endof play of an online game.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is realized that itmay be beneficial to maintain the interest of players in playing games.In one aspect of the present invention, it is appreciated that it may bebeneficial for players to feel that they are playing in a competitivesetting. A result of providing such an environment gives players acontinued interest in playing multiple games. In the case of gamesprovided in a gaming (e.g., in a casino), such games may be providedthat simulate the environment of other games provided in theenvironment, but play of the game is located outside of the competitiveenvironment (e.g., outside of the casino). For instance, one or moregames may be provided for play by players over the Internet.

One problem of providing players play over the Internet is that they donot see others playing a tournament-style game in which other playersmay be playing individual games where their play might affect a resultof a tournament-type game. According to one aspect of the presentinvention, it is appreciated the feel of tournament play providesincentives for players to continue playing the game, along with thechance to earn additional jackpot.

Gaming over the Internet and other computer-based networks has becomevery popular. However, according to one aspect of the present invention,it may be beneficial to create a tournament-type gaming experiencesimilar to that provided in the casino and other traditional gamingenvironments for Internet-based games. To this end, a system and gameformat for conducting a tournament-type game may be provided.

In one such game format, the player is permitted to play acomputer-based game (referred to hereinafter as a “primary” game) duringwhich the game playing system reveals results of another game (referredto hereinafter as a “secondary” game). This secondary game may be acasino or lottery-based game. One such secondary game is the well-knowngame of Keno. However, it should be appreciated that the secondary gamemay be any other type of game (e.g., a lottery game). The primary gamemay be any type of computer-based game, including games of skill and/orchance, such as card games, casino games, video games or any other typeof game through which a result from another game may be revealed. In oneaspect of the present invention, the play of the primary game that theplayer plays does not affect the outcome of the secondary game. Inanother aspect of the present invention, the secondary game result doesnot affect the outcome of the primary game played by the player.

In another example, the primary game involves some level of influence bythe player on the outcome of the primary game. For instance, the primarygame may be a game of skill. However, it should be appreciated that theprimary game may be a game of chance, or combination of skill andchance. In one example, the primary game may be a slot machine which isa well-known game of chance. As is known, a slot machine includes anumber of wheels having symbols or other indicia that, when matched orotherwise presented in a particular combination, wins the player aprize. The play of the slot machine game may present, for instance, theresult (or partial result) of the secondary game (e.g., a lottery-typegame, Keno game).

According to one aspect of the present invention, the player may bepermitted to play one or more game instances of the primary game, suchas a slot machine game. For example, the player may be permitted to playmultiple spins of a slot machine game. These game instances may be, forexample, associated with a single instance of a secondary game (e.g., asingle ticket for a single Keno drawing) or multiple instances of asecondary game (e.g., one or more tickets for one or more Kenodrawings). In one example, the player may be permitted to play 100instances of a game (e.g., 100 pulls of a slot machine game) and the 100instances may be associated with 100 sets of Keno numbers. These Kenonumbers may be associated with a single drawing, or multiple Kenodrawings. The result of the multiple Keno games determines the result ofthe tournament.

The player is permitted to play the game instances in a tournament-typegame format wherein players play against each other to win one or moreprizes. Prizes may be, for instance, cash prizes that are awarded toplayers indicated as winning the tournament. The prizes may be funded,for example, by a hold of the ticket sales associated with the secondarygame, or may be funded through a promotional budget or giveaway, or maybe funded in any other manner. The tournament-type game may be played inaddition to a “regular” secondary-type game, and may be selected by theplayer at the point of ticket purchase.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the tournament may beconducted at a set time, and players are permitted to play the gameinstances at specified time intervals. For instance, in the case of aslot machine-type game wherein the player is awarded 100 spins of a slotmachine, the player may be permitted to play the instances within afixed time limit (e.g., a half hour) with other players. In this case,the tournament may begin for all players at the same (or substantiallythe same) time. In yet another example game format, the tournament mayalso end at a predetermined time. Optionally, there may be provided abuffer period near the end of the tournament to permit players to finishtheir games. Once the player enters the buffer period, there may bepresented an indication that the winner(s) of the tournament are beingcalculated. At the conclusion of the buffer period, the players may bepresented the final results of the tournament (e.g., through a displayof a leader board interface).

According to one aspect of the present invention, the players play ofthe one or more game instances are synchronized with each other.According to one embodiment of the present invention, a feature isprovided that causes the game to be played automatically if the playerdoes not cause the game to play in a predetermined period of time.However, according to another embodiment of the present invention, aplayer is permitted to play as fast as the player wishes, and is notlimited to leading other players in game play.

In one specific embodiment, if the player does not finish or otherwisereveal a result associated with a particular game instance within apredetermined period of time, the play of the game instance proceedsautomatically, and the result associated with that particular gameinstance is revealed to the player. Similarly, if a player starts latein the tournament, that player may begin play with a game instanceassociated with the time at which the player begins play. In thisspecific example, any results or prior game instances that have not beenplayed by the player may be revealed in another game (e.g., aninstant-type game) to the player to permit the player to “catch up” toother players, yet still view results associated with earlier non-playedgame instances.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the player need not bepresent or play the online portion of the game (e.g., the primary game)in order to win one or more instances of the secondary game (andtherefore, the tournament). However, a game-playing computer thatconducts the online game may provide an indication to each player whichplayer is currently leading in the tournament. Because players may notnecessarily play the online game, there may be a method for representingto other players that the non-playing player is currently leading thetournament even though they are not present. To this end, a game-playingcomputer may indicate an identifier of the player currently winning thetournament. Because such an indication is provided, players are lesslikely to feel cheated, if at the end of the tournament, one of theactual participants does not win the race. Such an indication may be,for example, a token or other identifier (e.g., a username, nickname, orany other identifier) associated with the ticket. For players who havenot selected a username (e.g., a player that arrives late and has notregistered), one may be automatically assigned by a computer systemconducting the tournament so that results may be displayed to otherplayers participating in the tournament.

In the example above where the result of one or more Keno tickets areused to drive the results of an online game, sets of numbers associatedwith the ticket are “graded” by a Keno system, and the graded sets ofnumber from the one or more tickets are used to determine the winner ofthe tournament. The result of the tournament as well as the play leadingup to the result may be driven by the results of the ticket gradings.

As discussed above, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the online game may include one or more instances of a slotmachine game. The slot machine game may be, for example, a multi-reelslot machine having one or more paylines as is known in the art. Theslot machine game may include a computer-generated interface (e.g., agraphical user interface) shown to a player on a computer system. Theslot machine game may have any number and type of indicia, and mayappear similar to conventional-type slot machine games.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the slot machinegame is a single level game, wherein the player is allocated apredetermined number of spins of a slot machine game. In particular, theplayer activates a control that causes the slot machine reels to spin,after which a result associated with each spin (or pay line) is revealedto the player. After the result is revealed, the player is permitted toactivate the slot machine again, and to continue to use up the allocatedspins until the spins are exhausted.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the slot machinegame is combined with a second level game. Play of the second level gamemay proceed after some achievement level in the slot machine game. Forinstance, the player may play the slot machine game as discussed above,and in one embodiment, the second level may proceed after the playersuccessfully plays a series of instances of the slot machine game.Alternatively, the player may play the slot machine game untilcompletion, and at an ending of the slot machine game (e.g., the playerquits, uses a control to automatically play the slot machine game,etc.), the player begins playing the second level game. It should beappreciated that either a single-level or multi-level game may be usedto facilitate the tournament type game in any particular game instance,and any achievement in any of the levels may be used to determine theresult of the tournament.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the result of theprimary game is stored on a server coupled to a computer system uponwhich the game is played. In one example, the result is downloaded tothe computer system prior to game play. The result may be in the form ofintermediate results of each game instance that are displayed to theplayer at various points during game play. For instance, intermediateresults may be displayed to a user during an instance of a slot machinegame. For example, intermediate results may be shown to a player when aparticular spin is activated, a particular outcome is achieved (e.g.,the player obtains a particular reel combination along one or more paylines) or other achievement during the play of a slot machine game.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the traditional game ofpoker or similar game is coupled with a second level game. Further,during the play of the poker game, one or more items are awarded to theplayer for use in the second level game. For instance, items are awardedwhen the poker game is played. In the example of the poker game, theremay be an indication in a pay table that one or more card combinationsprovide the player with one or more items (e.g., item(s) that may beused with a second level game). For instance, the second level game maybe a slot machine-type game, and one or more spins may be awarded to theplayer during play of the first level game. In one embodiment, a paytable is provided that correlates poker hands with a number of spinsawarded to the player. In another example, a pay table is provided thatcorrelates poker hands with a number of points awarded to the player. Ifthe player achieves a particular point total, that player may receive anitem for use in the second level game.

The player may, in the first level game, accrue more than one item. Inyet another example, if the player achieves a particular point value,the second level game may be initiated. In any of the examples, theplayer may or may not achieve the second level game. Of course, if theplayer is determined prior to play as receiving a prize, resultsreceived in the first level game may be adjusted so that the playerproceeds to the second level game independent of the skill (or lackthereof) in playing the first level game. In one example, the player maybegin game play of the first level with one item awarded to ensure thatthe player proceeds to the second level game.

Prizes awarded may be, for example, a cash prize awarded for aparticular game. It should be appreciated, however, that other prizesmay be awarded (e.g., merchandise, credit, free play, etc.) and that theinvention is not limited to any particular prize type.

According to one aspect of the present invention, prizes revealed to theplayer may be stored in a database of the server and downloaded to theclient prior to play. In this example, the player may be allowed, when aticket is purchased at a POS, the ability to play a number of instancesof the game. Prizes may be awarded, for example, at each instance of theonline game. For example, in a single level slot machine game, a prizemay be awarded as a result of a spin of the slot machine, as a result ofone or more paylines. In a multilevel game, the result may be revealedin one or more of the levels. To accomplish the revealing of results,the result of each prize may be stored in the database of the server,and may be indexed by an identifier of the ticket. For example, theidentifier may be a serial number or other ticket-identifyinginformation.

Each instance of the game may include an associated prize (or not), andthese prizes may be combined for an overall prize associated with theticket. In one example, the prize associated with the first instance (ora payline) of a slot machine game is $10.

Each instance of the game may include an associated prize (or not), andthese prizes may be combined for an overall prize associated with theticket. In one example, the prize associated with the first instance ofthe slot machine game is $10. A prize associated with a second instanceof the slot machine game is $15. The prizes associated with eachinstance of the slot machine game may be stored as an entry in thedatabase of the server.

In an alternative embodiment, there is one instance of the slot machinegame, wherein there are multiple win opportunities within the singlegame instance. For example, in a single slot machine game, there may bewin opportunities associated with certain spins of the slot machinegame. In one specific example, a win opportunity may be associated witha corresponding pay line of the slot machine game. When a spinassociated with one of the win opportunities is performed, a prize maybe (or not) revealed to the player. A combination of these revealedprizes may total to a total prize associated with a particular ticket.The result of each spin may be predetermined as discussed above toprovide the overall prize.

As an alternative to each result of each game instance beingpredetermined, the result of each prize for each instance of the gamemay be determined dynamically by the client computer. For example, ifthe overall prize (e.g., $25) for the ticket is known, the client candetermine (e.g., randomly) a distribution of winnings of the overallprize among game instances. In the example above, a play of the ticketon one computer could award a $25 prize among two game instances asfollows: $5 prize for the first game instance and $20 for the secondgame instance. Another play of the ticket on the same or differentcomputer may award a $25 prize differently among the two game instances(e.g., $10 for the first game instance, $15 for the second gameinstance, etc.). It should be appreciated, however, that the game mayinclude any number of game instances, and the prize associated with eachgame instance may be stored in any storage location (e.g., at the clientcomputer, at the server, etc.). As discussed, prize distribution may bestored in a database of the server, may be determined by the client(e.g., randomly), or may be stored at any location or be determined byany manner by the client.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an improved gameexperience is provided for revealing the result of an online game. Asdiscussed above, a player purchases a ticket or other game piece at aPOS or other location. On the ticket, multiple plays of an associatedonline game are provided with each ticket or other game piece. Theplayer can play those multiple plays across a set of games. Forinstance, the set of games may include, for example, games of skilland/or chance as discussed above. Certain games may include one or moreattempts (or opportunities) for winning prizes. These opportunities forwinning may be associated with one or more prizes. For example, a playerplaying a slot machine may be awarded a certain number of opportunitiesto play a game (e.g., a game instance (or game play) or otheropportunity to win a prize when playing a particular game instance(e.g., multiple lines in a multi-line slot machine)). In the case of aslot machine game, the player may be given a particular number of spinsof the slot machine game, and, as a result of each spin, the player maybe awarded (or not) a prize. In one embodiment, the result of theoverall game is predetermined, and a game experience is determined foreach opportunity (e.g., spin) that results in a contribution to theresult of the overall game.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the type of gamethat is played is immaterial to the outcome revealed to the player. Moreparticularly, the same outcomes associated with a particular ticket maybe used to drive multiple types of games. This allows, for example, thegaming operator to offer multiple types of games with a single ticket,and allows the player to select which game(s) to play to reveal theoutcomes associated with the particular ticket. For instance, the playermay elect to play a slot machine game or other type of game for a firstgame instance of a ticket, and for a second instance, play a poker game.In a tournament type game according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the game instances associated with each tournament may bedifferent types of games (e.g., different types of slot machines, acombination of a slot machine game with other types of games, etc.).

Of course, it should be appreciated that any type of game and othercombinations of games are possible. In this manner, the player may beprovided the flexibility to play particular games in which the player isinterested, thereby increasing his/her interest and participation in thegame. Further, the game operator is provided additional flexibility asnew games may be introduced/substituted that are associated with thesame ticket or other game piece.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the outcome of thegame is predetermined at the time of ticket printing, issuance, orpurchase or shortly thereafter. That is, the game outcome associatedwith a particular ticket is available prior to, at the same time, orshortly thereafter the ticket is provided to the player, after whichtime the player is permitted to play any games to reveal thepredetermined outcome. In another embodiment, outcomes associated withtickets issued to the player are determined some time after the ticketissuance (i.e., outcomes are “post-determined”). Such is the case withKeno or other drawing-based games wherein game outcomes are determinedafter ticket issuance.

In one aspect of the invention, it may be beneficial to have a lateractivation of tickets, especially in the case of a ticket-based gamewhere tickets are issued in some other gaming environment (e.g., acasino). It may be desirable to only permit the player to play such agame outside the gaming environment (e.g., at home on a computer system)so as not to compete with other games. Additionally, it may be desirableto require the player to revisit the gaming environment to redeem theticket and increase the chances that the player will purchase additionaltickets or play other types of games offered in the gaming environment.

In such a game, players are permitted to obtain the outcome at apredetermined time, usually after the player has purchased the ticket.The game may be, in one example, scheduled at a particular start time(e.g., Wednesday at 7:00 PM). Further, the tournament result may berevealed at a particular scheduled time (e.g., a scheduled time afterall intermediate results are revealed to players). Also, game instancesand their associated results may be conducted and/or displayed to aplayer according to predetermined times. In one embodiment, each gameinstance is conducted according to a scheduled time in order to progresstournament play.

Also, according to another aspect of the present invention, a first gamemay be used to reveal the result of a second game. As discussed above,this second game may be one which is already approved by regulators.Such a system may be, for example, a game whose results are driven by arandom number generator (or RNG as referred to in the art). One suchgame is the well-known game of Keno. Another game that may be used isthe well-known game of bingo. Other games may be used to drive theresult of an online game.

In one example, a Keno game and its associated system are used togenerate results which are revealed to a player during play of an onlinegame. To this end, a Keno-based system may be used in conjunction withan online gaming system to present new and interesting online gameswhose outcomes are driven by results provided by the Keno system. In oneparticular example, a Keno system provides a correlation of a ticketidentifier to a Keno game which is held at some predetermined time. Asthe Keno numbers are drawn, an outcome is produced that is associatedwith the particular ticket identifier and is provided to an onlinegaming system. The online gaming system uses the produced outcome torender a new and interesting gaming experience within an online gamingenvironment. As discussed, such an environment may include online playof one or more online games of skill, chance, or combination thereof.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, wins are optimizedacross game instances associated with a ticket. For instance, a ticketmay have a predetermined outcome (for example, awarding a prize of $50),that may be allocated across the game instances associated with thatticket. For example, in the case of winning $50 on a 5-play (5 gameinstances) ticket, it may be desired to allocate the wins across gameinstances to provide a particular game experience. For instance, thegame experience of winning $50 may be distributed across five gameinstances (e.g., five separate games, respectively winning $5, $0, $0,$5, $40) to provide the player an early indication of winning. Also, theremaining game play of the game instances may be scripted to build thedrama of the game experience while still retaining player interest. Sucha scripted outcome is more interesting, according to one embodiment, asthe player is presented an outcome in a way such that retains interestin the game. This is beneficial, as an overall result includes extendingscratch-type games or other type of game experience beyond the point ofsale, and beyond the instant (but fleeting) gratification associatedwith scratch-type or other instant ticket game experiences.

According to one embodiment, a player is permitted to wager and redeembets at authorized locations (e.g., legal jurisdictions such as lotteryretail establishments, casinos, and the like) while the online portionof the game may be played in any locale or jurisdiction. In such a case,the casino or lottery experience is extended to locations whereotherwise lottery and/or casino games are not available. Thereafter,players return to the lottery or casino establishment to redeem theirtickets thereby providing yet another opportunity to entertain theplayer.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, winningresults may be split across opportunities to win. One embodiment of thepresent invention relates generally to how wins are shown to the playeracross win opportunities. In one specific example, one embodimentrelates to a method for revealing wins to a player across a play ofmultiple game instances that build excitement for the player and whichholds the interest of the player in continuing to play the game. It isappreciated that the game experience may be made more compelling if winsare distributed among win opportunities in an interesting way.

Another method for maintaining the interest of players includes awardingadditional opportunities to win with each ticket. For instance, one ofthe prizes awarded with a particular opportunity to win (e.g., duringthe play of the game instance) may be one or more additionalopportunities to win. For instance, in a slot machine game, an issuedticket may be associated with five (5) spins. One of the prizes awardedwith the ticket may include additional spins. At the time of initialticket activation, it may be predetermined that the ticket is associatedwith these additional opportunities to win, and these additionalopportunities may be associated with the issued ticket. The player, whenplaying the game, will obtain additional satisfaction in playing becausethe number of game instances to be played by the player are increased,and therefore, their opportunity to win is also increased. This may bebeneficial to create a more realistic gaming experience (such as incasino slots) where additional spins may be awarded during casino play.However, unlike casino play wherein slot play can be continued from anonline account or by placing additional bets to create a more continuousgame experience, the additional spins are awarded to a single ticket.

In the case where an online game system is a Keno-based or otherdrawing-based systems wherein results are not predetermined, additionalopportunities to win may be associated with the ticket in the form ofadditional numbers selected by a computer system and associated with theticket at the time of a drawing. This may be performed, for example, byassigning one or more additional drawing entries as a prize itself inthe pay table associated with the Keno or other drawing-based game. Moreparticularly, the drawing entries may be awarded as prizes, whichthemselves are indexes into other entries in the same pay table. Suchadditional entries may correspond to one or more prizes. For example,when the drawing occurs, the additional plays are awarded to the drawingnumbers associated with the ticket. These drawing numbers may beassociated with a particular game instance, of which there may be manyassociated with one ticket. At the point when the ticket is activated bythe result of the drawing and play of the online game is permitted, theplayer, upon the beginning of play of the ticket or a particular gameinstance, the player is awarded the additional plays (and therefore, anyprizes) associated with these additional plays. The additional plays maybe played as additional game instances, which themselves have additionalreveal opportunities. Alternatively, additional reveal opportunities maybe added to one or more other game instances to make game play moreexciting.

In another example, additional opportunities to win are awarded to aticket, but these additional opportunities are awarded for a future gameinstance. In one example, the game reveals, during a win opportunity(e.g., a spin, a reveal, etc.) in a first game instance, one or more winopportunities within a second game instance. These win opportunities maybe redeemed and “added on” to the second game instance, or the winopportunities may be provided as part of a “free play” of an additionalgame instance. In the case of a game driven by a drawing-based system(e.g., Keno, bingo, etc.), additional win opportunities may be providedfor game instances conducted at a later time. For example, in a firstgame, a player may be provided a “free play” of a game instance to beconducted (or available to be played) at a particular start time. Tothis end, the player may be provided an additional code that allows theplayer to play the game at the later time. In the case of asubscription-based system where a player subscribes to play more thanone game, the player may have additional plays added to his/her existingsubscription.

In another example, an additional opportunity to win a prize may beprovided outside of the play of the primary game. Because theopportunity is presented outside of the play of the game, there areseveral benefits to such a win opportunity. For instance, the player ispermitted to lose the primary game even though the ticket associatedwith the primary game is a winning ticket. In one specific example, theplayer may be permitted to play the primary game and lose, and have thewinning result revealed in the additional win opportunity. Thus, a widerrange of games and more realistic games may be offered with such a gameformat. In one embodiment, the additional win opportunity may bepresented to the player in the form of an additional game. In onespecific game format, a number selection game may be used as theadditional game.

Also, providing such an additional win opportunity allows the primarygame to be simplified, as the various permutations of possible resultsof the primary game need not be designed into the primary game. Forinstance, a pay table associated with the primary game may notadequately represent all of the possible combinations of game outcomesthat may produce a predetermined win result. Thus, the additional winopportunity may be provided to take into account any game outcomes thatfall outside of the paytable. Further, the additional win opportunitymay be used by a game operator to award prizes to the player outsideplay of the primary game. For instance, the game operator or affiliatedorganization may provide, in the additional win opportunity, additionalprizes such as, for example, rewards points, coupons, discounts or otherpromotional items. These items may be awarded with the intent ofincreasing interest in the game and/or promoting other games, products,and/or services.

In another aspect of the present invention, winnings by a player may beredeemed online to allow the player to play further instances of theonline game. For instance, the player, after receiving a prize whenplaying a particular game instance, is permitted to redeem the prizeonline. In one type of online redemption, the player is provided one ormore additional game instances to be played. To this end, the player maybe provided one or more access codes allowing the player to play theadditional game instance(s). These additional access codes may beprovided to the player in an interface of the game, by e-mail, or othermethod.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method ispresented for providing players an enhanced gaming experience. Accordingto one embodiment, it is appreciated that it is beneficial to enhanceplayers' interest in playing games, particularly losing ones. In oneembodiment, an illusion is presented to players to provide the illusionof being very close to winning a particular game. For instance, in thecase of a slot machine, the slot machine result may indicate, in athree-wheel slot machine, that the player received a possible winningcombination on the first two wheels, and only with the revealing of thelast wheel does the player realize that he/she has lost the game.According to one aspect, it is realized that the losing game experienceshould compel the player to continue playing the game.

In another example system, prizes may be awarded in association witheach item collected in the game (e.g., number of points in a slotmachine type game). Therefore, prizes may be distributed among elementsor levels during play as well as being distributed among game instances.For example, in the specific examples discussed above, prizes may bedistributed among pay lines in a slot machine game or cards in a bingogame. As discussed, prize distribution may be stored in a database ofthe server, may be determined by the client (e.g., randomly), or may bestored at any location or be determined by any manner by the client.

According to another aspect of the invention, it is appreciated thatconventional methods for playing online games of chance are not secure.In particular, because the result or outcome of the game orpredetermined sequence of game states may be encoded on a ticket, thelottery game may be compromised if the winning codes are deciphered.Such a deciphering could occur, for example, by hacking a computersystem associated with the online lottery and obtaining a list ofwinning tickets, or reverse engineering software (e.g., on a PC) wherethe winning codes or sequence of game states may be stored. Further, itis realized that in such conventional systems, the lottery ticket or theonline game software and its data are single points of security failuresin the system.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a method for conducting agame of chance. According to one embodiment, a more secure method isprovided by which an online game may be played. Instead of placing agame seed that determines a sequence of game states on a ticket (e.g.,an instant scratch or lottery ticket), the game states or outcomes maynot be placed on the ticket. Rather, the outcomes may be stored in anonline database. To this end, a code may be stored on the ticket, thecode being used as a decryption key used to find the outcome stored inthe database. In particular, there may be a mapping between an outcomecode and a corresponding decryption key that is printed on the ticket.

Because the decryption key is placed on the ticket, unauthorized accessto the online game is not permitted without the physical ticket. Inanother embodiment, a portion of the decryption key is placed on theticket, and another portion is stored in a database associated with theonline game. In this manner, security cannot be breached without havingboth portions of the key (either having the issued ticket portion or theonline portion). Thus, a hacker may not compromise a lottery ticketdatabase without the ticket, and, by virtue of having a winning ticket,other winning ticket numbers may not be determined. Access to the onlineportion of the key may be obtained, for example, by providing some otherinformation (e.g., a serial number printed on the ticket). However, itshould be appreciated that the information used to gain access to theonline portion of the key need not be printed on the ticket—theinformation may be provided on some other medium or by another method.

The ticket may be, for example, a scratch-type lottery or “instant”ticket, pull-tab, or type of pre-printed ticket type. Alternatively, theticket may be a printed lottery ticket as is known in the art, which isa ticket printed at a Point of Sale (POS), usually in the form of alottery drawing ticket (e.g., PowerBall or other type lottery drawinggame). Also, the ticket may be an electronic ticket issued by a computersystem. It should be appreciated that the ticket may be any type ofticket issued in any form, and the invention is not limited to anyparticular ticket type method of issuing a ticket.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for playing agame of chance is provided. The method comprises acts of permitting aplayer to purchase an entry into one or more games of chance, the one ormore games of chance associated with a tournament, performing, in anonline game, a revealing of a result to the player of the one or moregames of chance, and indicating, to the player, a status of thetournament. According to one embodiment of the invention, the methodfurther comprises an act of issuing a ticket to a player, the ticketincluding a code printed on a surface of the ticket, the ticket beingassociated with a plurality of results. According to another embodiment,the method further comprises an act of providing for the player to playanother game on a different medium than the issued ticket, wherein theplurality of results are revealed to the player. According to anotherembodiment, the method further comprises an act of revealing theplurality of results during play of an online game. According to anotherembodiment, the method further comprises an act of displaying aninterface comprising one or more player identifiers each of whichrepresent a player and a corresponding ranking of each player in thetournament. According to another embodiment, the result ispredetermined.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the method furthercomprises an act of selecting a plurality of sets of numbers associatedwith the entry into the one or more games of chance. According toanother embodiment, the method further comprises an act of associatingthe tournament with an identifier of the entry into the one or moregames of chance. According to another embodiment, the identifier of theentry is an identifier of a ticket issued to the player at a point ofsale (POS). According to another embodiment, the method furthercomprises an act of displaying the interface in a display of a computersystem. According to another embodiment, the method further comprises anact of automatically playing at least one instance of the online game ifthe player does not play the game instance within a predetermined time.According to another embodiment, the online game begins at apredetermined time.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the online game ends at apredetermined time. According to another embodiment, the at least oneinstance of the online game begins at a predetermined time. According toanother embodiment, the method further comprises an act of indicating,to the player, a result of the tournament after the online game ends.According to another embodiment, the online game includes a slot machinegame. According to another embodiment, the online game includes a pokergame. According to another embodiment, the online game includes a gameof skill. According to another embodiment, the act of indicatingincludes an act of displaying the indication in a display of agame-playing computer system. According to another embodiment, themethod further comprises an act of providing, by a first serverassociated with a first game, a result associated with the game ofchance. According to another embodiment, the method further comprises anact of storing, in a memory of a computer system, the result associatedwith the game of chance.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the method furthercomprises an act of associating the result with an indication of theticket. According to another embodiment, the method further comprisesacts of performing a drawing and determining a set of winning numbers,comparing the sets of numbers to the set of winning numbers, determiningwhether each of the set of numbers wins the player a prize, determininga total of prizes won by each of the set of numbers, and determining aresult of the tournament based on whether the determined total meets atleast one criteria. According to another embodiment, the sets of numbersare sets of Keno numbers, and wherein the act of determining a result ofthe tournament based on whether the determined total is performed by aKeno system. According to another embodiment, the method furthercomprises an act of sending the result of the tournament to agame-playing computer system. According to another embodiment, themethod further comprises an act of displaying the result of thetournament on a display of the game-playing computer system. Accordingto another embodiment, the act of determining the result of thetournament further comprises an act of determining the result based onwhether the determined total exceeds respective totals of other playersin the tournament. According to another embodiment, the act ofdetermining the result of the tournament further comprises an act ofdetermining the result based on whether the determined total exceeds aminimum amount.

Further features and advantages of the present invention as well as thestructure and operation of various embodiments of the present inventionare described in detail below with reference to the accompanyingdrawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals indicate like orfunctionally similar elements. Additionally, the left-most one or twodigits of a reference numeral identifies the drawing in which thereference numeral first appears.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In thedrawings, each identical or nearly identical component that isillustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. Forpurposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in everydrawing. In the drawings,

FIG. 1 is block diagram of a system for conducting a game according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an example ticket that may be issued in association with agame according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart of a process for conducting a game according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a process for conducting a game according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a system for conducting a game according to according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a game interface according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 is a game interface according to another embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 8 is a game interface according to another embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9 is a game interface according to yet another embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10 is a process for conducting a tournament-type game according toone embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 11 is a game interface according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A player may purchase a lottery or other type of ticket, to play aprimary game (e.g., a slot machine game). In one embodiment of thepresent invention, the player is permitted to play in a tournamentinvolving one or more instances of an online game. In particular, theplayer may be permitted to enjoy the feeling of playing in a tournamentagainst other players in the environment of an online game.

In one example, the primary game result is driven by the result of asecondary game, such as a lottery or casino-based drawing (e.g., a Kenodrawing). The secondary game is then played, and the result of theoverall tournament is determined based on the results of the secondarygame instances. Results of the secondary game instances and the resultof the tournament are sent to an online gaming system. The player isthen permitted to play an online game to reveal the results of thesecondary game instances and the result of the overall tournament.

In one example game format, the player may be permitted to enter atournament-type game at the point of initial purchase of the game (e.g.,at the Point of Sale (POS)). The player may be permitted, for example,to enter into a tournament comprising a number of primary game instances(e.g., spins of a slot machine game).

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a secondary gamesuch as a Keno drawing drives the result of each of one or more primarygame instances. In one specific example, if a player pays for 100 plays(e.g., 100 sets of Keno numbers) the player is permitted to play 100instances of the online game. For instance, the player may be allotted100 spins of a slot machine game. The result of the games may bepredetermined, or may be driven by a future event, such as a Kenodrawing.

Game sessions may be held at predetermined times. For instance, one ormore Keno drawings that drive the results of the primary game instancesmay be performed at one or more predetermined times. The player may playthe game instances after one or more results associated with the Kenodrawings are made available to the online game system. For instance,when a Keno drawing occurs, one or more of the Keno tickets may be“graded” to determine whether the player has a winning ticket. Theresult can be transferred to an online gaming system that translates theresult into one or more results associated with an online game. In thecase of a slot machine type game, the result may be translated to awin/loss indication along one or more paylines of the slot machine game.

Tournament results may be made available after a single Keno drawing, orin another example, the player may pay to play multiple games thatresult from associated Keno drawings, which may not necessarily occur atthe same time. Thus, plays may be protracted over a period of time, andresults of each play may be driven by a separate Keno drawing.

The player continues to play the game instances, and after the finalgame instance is played, the result of the tournament may be presentedto the player. In one example, the player is provided an identifier(e.g., a username) and that identifier is presented to other playersduring the game. In one example, the game-playing computer system maypresent to the player a listing of the top players in the tournament,along with their current status in the tournament. For instance, theprogress of each player in the tournament may be measured in points,prizes won, or other metric that can be used to determine a winner ofthe tournament. In one specific example, the player that wins the mostprizes in the tournament is awarded an additional prize. In yet anotherexample, prizes may be awarded to the top players in the tournament.Prizes may be awarded, for example, to any player that achieves aminimum amount of winnings or other criteria. Indications of the statusof the tournament and any related information may be presented in aninterface of the game-playing computer system. The interface may be inthe form of a leader board that is displayed to each player whileplaying in the tournament.

According to one embodiment, the player may indicate that tournamentplay is desired at the Point of Sale (POS). This indication may be, forexample, be performed by the player by forming a mark on a card similarto those used to enter lottery or Keno-type drawings. To this end, theremay be a box or other section of the card that, when filled out by theplayer, selects the tournament option. The card may be scanned by areader, usually at the POS, and the player pays for the number of bets(e.g., number of plays). As discussed, there may be more than onetournament option from which the player may choose. For example, theremay be tournaments that involve more of less game instances, differenttypes of games or combinations thereof.

The tournament option may be selected in other ways, such as, forexample, in an interface of a computer system. In one example, theplayer may purchase lottery or other types of tickets using a computer,and the interface may permit the player to select a tournament option.For instance, such tickets may be purchased through a kiosk or othertype of computer system.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the player, afterpurchasing one or more plays of the game, plays the primary game on acomputer system. This computer system may be the same or differentcomputer system used to select the tournament option. In one example,the computer system includes a display in which an interface of theprimary game is displayed. The player plays one or more plays of thegame within the interface, and the plays may (or may not) be associatedwith a winning outcome.

According to one embodiment, there may be a special pay table for prizesawarded in the tournament. This pay table may be, according to oneembodiment, separate from the main pay table associated with the regulargame sessions. For example, the tournament pay table may pay out more orless than the pay table associated with regular game sessions. In onespecific example, the pay table may have a similar payout as the regulargame sessions, but has a lower hold so that the tournament winnings aresimilar in amount to the regular game sessions. Further, the tournamentoption may be used as a market retention tool to encourage the purchaseof multiple session games, encouraging continued play and return to thePOS (e.g., a casino) to redeem winnings.

Although the tournament option is attractive for casino-type games suchas slot machine-type games, it should be appreciated that such atournament option could be applied to any type any combination of games.For instance, such a tournament option may be applicable to alottery-type game or any other type of game that may be adapted to atournament format. For example, a tournament option may be used withgame formats including, but not limited to, slot machine games, videopoker, blackjack, games of skill such as a PAC-MAN type game, and othergames.

FIG. 2 shows an example ticket 201 that may be issued to a player inassociation with a game according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. The player may scratch a surface of the ticket (in the caseof a scratch ticket) to reveal one or more indications. Theseindications may include, for example, a serial number of the ticket, anaccess code, or other indication (or combination thereof) that may beused to access the online game. Alternatively, the ticket may be apull-tab ticket or other ticket type suitable for presenting indicationsto a player. The ticket may be, for example, a printed ticket that alsoindicates the election of a tournament option. Alternatively, the ticketmay be any other ticket type and may indicate (e.g., by a punch hole)that a tournament option was selected at the POS. The tournament may be,in one example, a separate game type that is selected by the player, ormay be an additional option that can be added onto a group of gameinstances. The tournament option may or may not involve an additionalcharge added to the purchase of the ticket.

The ticket may include other indications (e.g., a decryption key orportion thereof as described above that may be used to decrypt gameresults). Also, the ticket may indicate to a player the number of playsof a second game (e.g., as played by the player on a computer system).For instance, in the case of a slot machine game, the ticket mayindicate the number of spins that a player may be awarded by the ticket.Further, as discussed above, the player may be permitted to play any oneof a number of offered games, and the player may select different gamesto play to reveal results associated with game instances. The ticket maybe associated with one or more games, and there may be an indications onthe ticket to which games (e.g., a slot machine game, and/or any othergame types) the ticket provides access. The ticket may be associatedonly with a single game (e.g., a single-branded game), or may beindicative of multiple games that can be played.

In one embodiment, ticket 201 includes a code 202 printed on a surfaceof the ticket that provides access to outcomes (e.g., prizes) stored onthe server. As discussed, code 202 may also include, as an optionalfeature to increase security, a key that may be used to decrypt theoutcome. This outcome may be stored in a database stored on a serversystem. Ticket 201 may also include a ticket identifier 203 used toidentify the ticket, and which may be used to identify any outcome(s)associated with the ticket. Further, ticket 201 may include a gameindication 204 that relates information relevant to a game played on acomputer system. For example, there may also be stored, on the ticket,an identifier that indicates, to the player, the number of playsassociated with an online game. The ticket may, optionally, show atournament option selected at the time of purchase. In one example, aplayer purchases a ticket at a retailer or other POS location.

The player then proceeds to play a game on a computer system. FIG. 1shows an example system 100 according to one embodiment of the inventionupon which a game may be played. The user (a player) 110 plays a gamethrough an interface of a host computer system (e.g. host 101). Host 101may be any type of computer system that is capable of playing a game.The host may be, for example, a general-purpose computer system (e.g., apersonal computer (PC)) that connects to a network (e.g., the Internet).Other general purpose computer system types (e.g., a PDA, a cell phone,set-top box, or other system type) may be used to play the game.

The computer system may be coupled to a server system 103 through one ormore communication networks 102. The server may provide a game program109 that is executed by host 101 for playing the game. Moreparticularly, game program 109, when executed, may provide an onlinegame that can be played by a user through an interface associated withhost 101. This online game may be, for example, a video slot machine,blackjack, or other online or casino-type game.

The game program may be stored, for example, in a computer-readablemedium (e.g., a memory, storage, or other media) associated with server103 that provides game programs. For instance, the game program may bestored on a web server and downloaded to a client computer over theInternet. Game program 109 may be one of a number of game programsassociated with an online game experience. Different game programs maybe selectively downloaded to the client, based on the type of gameticket issued, the game selected for play by the user, the type ofclient used, or other criteria.

Server 103 may also be a general-purpose computer system, or any othertype of computer system capable of authenticating tickets, providinggame programs, and performing other game-related functions. Further, itshould be appreciated that various game functions may be performed byone or more server systems. Server 103 generally includes a processor104 for executing server-based game functions. Server 103 may alsoinclude a memory 105 for storing data associated with game programs.Server 103 may also include one or more network interfaces 106 thatcouple server 103 to network 102, which permit server 103 to communicatewith one or more hosts. Further, server 103 may include one or morestorage entities 107, including disks or other media for storing data.In one embodiment, storage 107 is adapted to store one or more gameprograms 109 as discussed above. Server 103 may have any number or typeof processor that executes an operating system and one or moreapplication programs. In one embodiment, server 103 provides web servercontent to one or more clients for the purpose of accessing and playingthe game.

Server 103 may also include a database 108 that is adapted to store oneor more outcomes associated with a ticket or other gaming piece. Asdiscussed, the outcome may be indexed using an identifier of the ticket.Further, database 108 may store information identifying a tournamentoption selected by the player. The tournament option may be associatedwith an identifier of a particular ticket.

FIG. 3 shows one example process for conducting a game according to oneembodiment of the present invention. At block 301, process 300 begins.At block 302, a player is issued a ticket. As discussed, a player maypurchase a ticket at a retailer or other POS location. At some latertime and/or location, the player may play the online game on one or morecomputer systems (e.g., a PC or other computer system capable of playinggames). For instance, at block 303, a host computer system (e.g., host101) executes a game program. The game program may be, for example, anonline game that includes one or more components downloaded over acommunication network (e.g., the Internet).

As discussed, the ticket may include a code which is used to access theoutcome of a game. This code may be printed on a face of the ticket asdiscussed above with reference to FIG. 2. In one example system, theplayer accesses a website that includes an interface in which the playermay enter the code at block 304.

This interface may be, for example, used to access the game, or may beany other interface (e.g., an interface used to access a downloadwebsite used for downloading game software (e.g., game program 109)).The interface may be programmed in one or more computer languages (e.g.,an HTML, Java, Macromedia Flash, or other type interface) and mayinclude a text entry box in which the player can input the code. Theinterface may include other ways of entering a code or other parameter(e.g., a glyph printed on a ticket) that allows the user to gain accessto the game. It should be appreciated that the invention is not limitedto any particular method for entering the code, or any format of thecode, and that any type of code or method of entry may be used.

The player enters the code, and an outcome is determined at block 305based on the code. More particularly, there may be a mapping between thecode printed on the ticket and an outcome stored on the server. Thiscode may be stored, for example, in a database structure stored indatabase 108 of the server. Database 108 may be, for example, arelational database, object database, flat file database, or otherorganizational entities used to store and maintain data. Further alisting of winning codes may be furnished to an organization thatprovides the game (such as, for example, a state-run lotterycommission). The code may, as discussed above, include an optionaldecryption key that decrypts an entry stored on the server. This entrymay indicate one or more outcomes of game instances. The entry may alsoinclude an outcome of a tournament based on the outcomes of the gameinstances. The outcome of the game is then used by the online game todetermine play of the game by the player at block 306. For instance, ifthe stored outcome is “Win $50,” the online game may present an outcometo the player that indicates that the player won a $50 prize. Thispresentation may be in the form of one or more reveals presented to theplayer while playing the online game at block 307. The presentation maybe progressive, in that the ultimate outcome (e.g., “Win $50”) isachieved through a set of reveals or progressions through the onlinegame. In the case where a slot machine game is played wherein revealoutcomes are associated with one or more paylines selected by theplayer, such reveal outcomes may be presented in an order stored at theserver or may be presented in an order based on the number of selectedpaylines. For example, in the case where a slot machine game is playedwherein points are collected to progress to a second level game, suchreveal outcomes presented during the second level game associated witheach instance of the slot machine game may be stored on the server,retrieved from the server, and progressively presented to the player.

As discussed, prizes may be distributed over game instances and/or items(or more generally, win opportunities) to maximize game interest and toentice the player to play each game instance associated with aparticular ticket. For example, one approach may include providing tothe player an early (relative in the series of game instances)indication of winning to keep the player interested. As the player playsmore game instances, the magnitude of the prizes may be adjusted suchthat a level of game “drama” is increased. That is, prize values areadjusted among later game instances to provide relatively higher prizevalues in later game instances. Other approaches/distributions may beprovided for increasing or maintaining game interest.

Once all of the game instances are played, the player may redeem theticket at the point of sale or other redemption location at block 308.Alternatively, the player may be permitted to redeem the ticket withoutplaying any or all of the game instances. Redemption may be permitted,for example, after a predetermined time. For instance, the player may bepermitted to redeem a ticket after a set time (e.g., 10 PM), aparticular time period after ticket purchase (e.g., 24 hours) or otherabsolute or relative time (e.g., after the tournament is conducted).This may be the case for a Keno or lottery-based system, where a Keno orlottery result is made available at a set time after ticket purchase.Alternatively, tickets may be redeemed immediately after purchase. Atblock 309, process 300 ends.

Payouts may be determined by a pay table associated with the game. Thenumber of tickets may be determined a priori, and a pay table thatdetermines payouts may be allocated to the tickets. This allocation maybe determined, for example, by shuffling the pay table and allocatingresults to tickets. The following is an example of a pay table that maybe used with a game according to one embodiment of the invention:

Number of Tickets Issued: 2000

Ticket Price: $5 TABLE I Example Payout Table Number of Tickets Payout 1$100 700 $10 500 $5 100 $1 600 $0Game Operator Return: $300 (3%)—expensesAs shown in the example above, a certain number of tickets may beallocated as winning tickets having a particular payout (e.g., anoutcome). Some tickets may have no payout associated with them, and somemay only have a nominal payout (e.g., a small award amount, free ticket,etc.). A small number of tickets may include a large payout as comparedto the magnitude of other payouts. It should be appreciated, however,that payouts are not limited to money, but other types of prizes may beawarded including merchandise, credit, loyalty points or any otherrepresentation of value.

The odds of winning may be the type of odds experienced in actual(rather than computer-based) games. Alternatively, the odds of winningmay not necessarily be “natural” odds of winning any particular type ofgame, but rather, the odds may be adjusted to obtain the outcome desired(e.g., by the gaming operator). The odds of winning, number of winningtickets, amount of payout per ticket, or other payout parameter may beany amount or number, and the invention is not limited to any particularodds of winning, number of winning tickets, payout amount or type ofpayout. However, according to one embodiment, the overall odds ofwinning, amount and type of payout, etc. may be similar to a gamepreviously approved by regulators (e.g., scratch ticket games, Keno,bingo, etc.) so that the use of an additional game to display an outcomeassociated with the previously-approved game is scrutinized much less byregulators, and as a result, the approval of the additional game is lessburdensome. To this end, a system associated with thepreviously-approved game may provide ticket and outcome information to asystem conducting an online game (e.g. server 103).

According to one embodiment, players with the highest winnings areindicated as winning the tournament and may be awarded additionalprizes. According to one embodiment, a tournament may be a compilationof multiple Keno games, each Keno game having a separate pay table.Tournament prizes may be funded from a portion of a hold from ticketsales and/or may funded from a promotional or marketing fund. The Kenogames associated with each player may be graded and compiled todetermine a winner of the tournament.

For instance, there may be 100 games associated with a single tournamententry, although it should be appreciated that the number of gameinstances may be any number, even only a single game instance. A set ofKeno numbers is associated with each game instance, and, as a result ofone or more Keno ball draws, the result of each Keno number set isdetermined. This determination may be made, for example, by the systemthat performs the Keno ball draw function, although it should beappreciated that this may be performed by any other system. The Kenonumber sets are “graded”, and the result of the tournament isdetermined. As discussed, the winner of the tournament may be the playerthat receives the highest total winnings among all of the Keno numbersets associated with the tournament.

There may be a separate pay table associated with the tournament, thepay table awarding prizes to the players with the highest winnings. Thepay table may be modified to provide a limited amount of prizes (e.g.,1^(st), 2^(nd) and 3^(rd) place prizes). Further, the pay table may beadjusted to provide higher stakes prizes to encourage continued play inthe tournament.

The code stored on the server (e.g., server 103) may be used todetermine game play as played on the computer system. For instance, thegame outcome may be “Win $50.” In the case of a slot machine-type game,the ticket may indicate that the player receives 10 spins of the slotmachine. The outcome of each spin may be predetermined, and the game mayretrieve information from the server indicating a predetermined sequenceof game play as discussed above. In the case of a slot machine-typegame, the predetermined sequence may indicate winnings associated witheach of the spins, points awarded for each spin (e.g., wherein prizesare not awarded for each spin, but wherein the game experience is stillpredetermined), and/or an indication of a prize won as a result ofplaying a second level game (e.g., a prize indicated by a spin of aprize wheel). It should be appreciated that any aspect of game play maybe predetermined and associated with the code.

In another example, only the overall outcome is predetermined (e.g., thetotal winning associated with the ticket), and the sequence of game playmay be determined when the game is played. In the example above wherethe player is indicated as winning $50 over 10 spins, the $50 winnings(and any intermediate losses) may be allocated to the player at anypoint over the 10 spins. In the case of any other type of game, winningsmay be allocated across game instances. In a further example, winningsmay be allocated across items collected while playing a game instance.In yet another instance, winnings may be allocated among any other gameelement, such as a card, payline, or other element. Because the numberof items collected may vary depending on the skill of the player, thedistribution of prizes among collected items may be determined duringgame play by the game playing system. Thus, according to one embodiment,the player's skill (or lack thereof) does not affect the overall outcomeof the game.

This allocation may be determined by the server, the game softwareexecuting on the client, or a combination thereof. Further, the gameplay may be randomized in that a further play using the same ticket mayyield a different sequence of game states leading to the same outcome.For example, in the case of a slot machine game as described above, aplayer may be indicated as winning $50, but the sequence by which theplayer attains the $50 winning outcome may be different depending onvarious factors. Such factors may include a randomization function thatdetermines results of individual game plays (e.g., in the case of aseries of “spins,” the result of each spin), or some other function. Theseries of intermediate outcomes may be stored in a database associatedwith the server as discussed above with respect to game outcomes. Also,the outcomes may be adjusted using a formula or rule-based approachduring execution of the game to increase the game drama and heighten thegame playing experience.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a player maypurchase a ticket at a point of purchase (e.g., a convenience store) andthe indication of a win/no win condition of the ticket is revealed on adifferent medium. For instance, a player purchases a scratch ticket in aconvenience or other type of store. The prize that the player wins isnot revealed on the scratch card itself, but rather the prize isrevealed through another medium (e.g., on a home computer system, PDA,cell phone, etc.).

For instance, as discussed above, the player may be presented anothergame (e.g., a card game, casino game or any other game) that reveals atleast a portion of the prize. The underlying prizes available via thereveals may be predetermined, in that the outcome of the game may bestored in one or more systems. The scratch or other type of ticket mayreveal different numbers of plays (e.g., pulls in the case of aslot-machine type game, or game instances of any other type of game) theplayer receives.

In one aspect of the present invention, the ticket includesauthentication information that is used to obtain the reveals. In oneexample, the ticket contains a secret key which is used to decrypt theresults that are revealed to the player. That is, according to oneaspect, it is impossible to determine if and what a particular ticketwins without having possession of the ticket (and therefore the secretkey). In another example, the ticket could contain only a portion of thesecret key. The other portion of the key may be stored, for example, ona server and retrieved from a database (e.g., file, relational database,etc.) based on, for example, the serial number of the card. Mappings ofserial numbers of tickets to encrypted results can be provided to thelottery provider for additional audit control.

A process for performing secure access to outcomes is shown in FIG. 4.At block 401, process 400 begins. A server (e.g., server 103) may storea number of outcomes in encrypted form, each of which outcomes can beaccessed by a respective code. These outcomes may be encrypted, forexample, using any encryption method (e.g., symmetric, asymmetricencryption) as is known in the art. At block 402, a code is provided tothe server (e.g., server 103).

This code may be, for example, a secret code (e.g., a symmetric key, aprivate key) printed on a ticket and provided to the server by a userthrough an interface of a computer system as discussed above. Thereceived code may be transmitted between systems using a securetransmission method (e.g., SSL) as is known in the art. The receivedcode is used at block 403 to decrypt the outcome (or result) stored onthe server. This code may be any decryption key type that may be used todecode data, and may be of any format or length. The decrypted outcomemay then be presented to a player at block 405. The outcome may bedisplayed using any method. For example, as discussed above, the outcomemay be presented through one or more reveals presented to the playerduring play of an online game. At block 405, process 400 ends.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a lottery-basedsoftware game that can be played over a network, such as the Internet.According to one embodiment, the system includes a purchase of ascratch-based or printed ticket by a player at a point of sale (POS). APOS may be, for example, a place at which lottery tickets may be sold,including convenience stores or other locations where lottery productsare provided. In an alternative system provided at a casino or othergaming establishment, a ticket may be sold to a player at the casino forplay at a later time. Optionally, the player selects a tournament-typegame involving play of one or more game instances.

The player receives the ticket at the POS or other location, andproceeds to play a computer-based game at another location to reveal aresult (or outcome) of the game. The computer-based game may be, forexample, a casino-type game (e.g. slot machine, video poker) or othertype of game, including amusement games or games of chance. In the caseof the scratch or printed ticket, the result is not apparent to theplayer until the player plays the computer-based game. This game may be,for example, a software program that is downloaded and played over theInternet. Alternatively, other ways of accessing the online portion ofthe game may be used (e.g., PDA, cell phone or other method).

The ticket includes a code by which a player gains access to a resultstored on a server that stores ticket information and results associatedwith each ticket. Such information may be predetermined at the time ofticket sale, or the results may not be known until a later time, afterthe ticket is issued to the player (e.g., in the case of a Keno, bingo,or other drawing-based system). According to one embodiment, the code isan access key (or a portion thereof) that is used to access one or moreresults stored on the server. Further, results (stored in the server)may be encrypted. For example, the code may be a private key or asymmetric key. The key may be transmitted by a client computer system tothe server for the purpose of decrypting results using SSL or any othersecure method.

Because the decryption key is stored on the ticket, the gaming system issafer, as a breach of security of either the tickets or the server doesnot provide access to result information. More particularly, access tothe lottery ticket or other type of database may not be accomplishedwithout the ticket (used to decrypt the result). Further, the ticketsmay not be correlated to results without the database (because theresults are stored in the database, not on the tickets).

In another example of the system, a portion of the key used to decryptresults of the game is stored on the ticket, and another portion isstored in the database of the server. In this manner, it is assured thatpossession of either portion of the key may not compromise the results.

However, it should be appreciated that the system does not require SSLor any other encryption/decryption method, a decryption key on theticket, or the stored result on the server to be encrypted. Rather, thegame can be implemented with or without these features. That is, accessto the outcome stored at the server may be performed using only theserial number or other ticket identifier printed on the ticket.

The scratch-based or printed ticket also includes a second serial numberor other identifier (e.g., an access code) in addition to the serialnumber or other identifier which is correlated to results on the server.A ticket may include both a serial number and a ticket identifier usedby the system. According to one embodiment, it is appreciated that theremay be security issues with using the serial number of a printed ticket(as printed on the ticket) to correlate to win outcomes. That is, thelottery provider may not allow any entity outside of the lottery systemto have the ability to correlate outcomes to serial numbers. To thisend, another identifier (e.g., a separate ticket identifier or accesscode) may be provided on a ticket to allow the system to index into anoutcome database.

In one example system that works in association with a lottery system,outcomes for a game may be predetermined to comply with lottery rules.In this case, outcomes are predetermined and stored in a database. In analternative environment where results are not permitted to bepredetermined (e.g., in a casino), but rather are determined at a latertime (e.g., by a drawing or other method), a ticket issued by a systemin such an environment may have an associated drawing time when a gamemay be played. In the case where the online game system is driven by aKeno game result, each ticket may be associated with a set of numbers inthe Keno game, and the result of the Keno game is provided as the resultfor the online game.

In one example, a computer system automatically picks one or more setsof numbers associated with the ticket at the point when the ticket isissued. Thereafter, when the Keno game occurs, the result of the Kenodraw is provided to an online game system, which translates the Kenoresult to a game experience within another game (e.g., a slot machinegame, etc.). It should be appreciated, however, that although the gameof Keno may be used to drive an online game experience, other games(e.g., bingo) may be used.

In the case where the player selects a tournament option, additionalsets of Keno numbers may be chosen associated with the tournamentticket. When one or more Keno drawing(s) occur, the result of the setsof Keno numbers are used to drive the online game along with any resultsof the overall tournament. When all of the sets of Keno numbers aregraded, the overall tournament result may be revealed to the player.

The server (e.g., server 103) may be capable of accepting, from theuser, an input of the serial number and decryption key, and in response,providing the results associated with the particular ticket. The resultor outcome of the game may be displayed to the player in an interface ofthe computer system (e.g., a client computer system such as a personalcomputer (PC)) used to play the computer-based game. For example, theoutcome of a series of plays associated with the ticket may be stored inthe server, and provided to the client, and the series of outcomes maybe presented to the player during play of the computer-based game.

In another embodiment of the system, a payout of the ticket may beencoded on the ticket. For instance, if the ticket is a $5 winner, theamount of the win may be encoded on the ticket. In the case of thecasino-based version of the system, the payout may not be stored on theticket (as the payout is not predetermined), but rather the purchaseprice of the ticket may be stored on the ticket, or some otheridentifier of the ticket.

As shown in FIG. 5, a system 500 may be provided having more than oneserver. For instance, a server 502 provided at the point of sale 501 isprimarily responsible with issuing tickets to a user/player 506. To thisend, server 502 may issue preprinted tickets or may issue ticketsprinted from an associated printer 505. Such tickets may include one ormore identifiers as discussed above with reference to FIG. 2. Asdiscussed, another system such as a Keno or lottery-based system may beused to provide results to an online game system.

In one version of system 500, the win/loss determination of a ticket maybe driven by a later-occurring drawing. For example, a Keno-based,bingo-based, or other type lottery draw system may be used wherein theoutcome of a particular game is not known until a future time (e.g.,when a drawing occurs). In this case, the ticket identifier stored onthe ticket may be an access code generated from ticket identifiers inthe Keno-based system (e.g., by an intermediate system or the Kenoserver itself that can translate a Keno ticket identifier into anothertype of identifier).

Generation of an identifier separate from the Keno ticket identifier maybe necessary for security reasons relating to the Keno system. Moreparticularly, access to the Keno ticket identifiers may not be permittedby the system (e.g., the Keno server). In one example, a Keno systemtranslates Keno ticket identifiers into access codes and results thatare stored on the game server (e.g., server 503). Thereafter, clients(e.g., hosts 504A, 504B) access results stored on the server based ontheir respective access codes. Such results may include, for example,any results of any game(s)/instance(s) and an associated tournamentresult associates with the game(s)/instance(s). In one example, the Kenosystem may perform a grading of the sets of Keno numbers associated withthe tournament, and may determine the result of the tournament.

As discussed above, one or more hosts 504A, 504B (e.g., general purposecomputer systems) may communicate with a server 503 over a network forthe purpose of conducting a game. In one example, a host 504A renders abrowser window by executing a browser program (e.g., the InternetExplorer browser program available from the Microsoft Corporation). Auser/player 506 enters a URL address specified by an issued ticket in awindow of the browser interface, and is directed to a website associatedwith server 503. This website may be rendered by, for example, a WWWserver process (e.g., server 507) associated with server 503.

Player 506 may be instructed to enter an access code (and/or any otherrequired information) to access one or more games in an interfacepresented through the browser. As discussed, server 503 may validate thereceived access code, and provide any results stored in a databaseassociated with server 510. Once validated by server 503, the user maybe permitted to play one or more games. These game may be, for example,be programmed using one or more programming languages (e.g., MacromediaFlash) and may be downloaded to host 504A and executed.

According to one aspect of the present invention, it may be beneficialto provide a game program that may be downloaded quickly to a client andplayed by a player without requiring any installation procedure,requiring operator (player) intervention, or delays in downloading largefiles. To this end, the game program may be programmed in a languagesupported by a majority of game playing systems (e.g., Macromedia Flash,etc.), and played without the need for downloading and installing largesoftware components. In one specific example, the game program mayexecute within a browser program (e.g., the Microsoft Explorer browserprogram) window. In this manner, less-sophisticated players who havedifficulty using computers and/or installing software may not beprohibited from playing the game. Of course, it should be appreciatedthat any programming method may be used that requires or does notrequire any installation procedure, and the invention is not limited toany particular programming method.

Also, outcomes associated with any games may be downloaded prior to gameplay. As discussed, examples of games include those that may be of thelottery-type (e.g., having a predetermined outcome) and those that arecasino-based (e.g., having an outcome that is not determined at the timeof sale of the ticket). In the case where a later drawing affects anoutcome, a player may not be permitted to play the game until thedrawing occurs (and until results are available at server 503). In thecase of a drawing that affects outcomes, drawing results can becommunicated from server 502 to server 503. In addition, server 502 maymaintain a mapping from a ticket identifier (e.g., a serial number) toan access code provided on the ticket, and provide a mapping of outcometo access code when the drawing occurs. As discussed, such outcomeinformation may be maintained in a database 510 associated with server503 and may be accessed through a database server process 509.

As discussed, the payout of the lottery ticket may be displayed to aplayer in a number of ways. For instance, the payout of the ticket maybe presented to the player through one or more reveals presented to aplayer during one or more plays of an online game.

For instance, in the case of a slot machine game, a player may bepermitted, with the issue of a single scratch or printed ticket, aseries of spins of the slot machine. The slot machine may, as the resultof each of the spins, produce results that contribute to the overallpayout to the player. For instance, after a single spin, a player may bepresented an indication that he/she has won $5. The payout to the playeras provided from the server database may be, for the series of spins,$50 overall, with particular outcomes for each spin. Additional spinresults may provide the additional $45 that the player will receive.Additional spins may add, subtract, or have no affect on thecontribution to the outcome of the game. These results of each spin ofthe slot machine game may be stored in the database of the serverindexed by the ticket identifier, or may be randomly determined by thegame program that renders the game. Further, as discussed above, theresults of each spin may be “scripted” such that the game experience ismore exciting to the player.

For example, in the case where the results of each spin are stored onthe server, the series of results may be downloaded to the client at thebeginning of the game as a series of entries, and the client may revealeach result as the player progresses through the series of spins. Asdiscussed, the player may be permitted to select more than one result tobe revealed during a single spin of the slot machine (e.g., by selectingmultiple pay lines). In this case, the results may still bepredetermined, but the outcome of each spin may be adjusted so that themultiple pay line result may be revealed.

In one example of the random method of determining results, results foreach individual spin are not predetermined, but rather are determined bythe client in a random manner. For instance, the actual outcomes of eachspin may be randomly chosen among the possible combination of outcomesthat may produce the required payout. In either case, the outcomes foreach spin of the slot machine game is not stored on the ticket, butrather is stored at the server and downloaded just prior or during gameplay, or is determined randomly by the client. Alternatively, the clientmay determine the game experience based on a predetermined set of rulesor formulas that, when an overall outcome is provided, allows the clientto determine intermediate outcomes in a dynamic way.

Because the game play and outcome are scripted, a player may also notplay the game (and possible secondary games) to actually win. A playermay purchase a ticket, wait until the ticket may be redeemed, and go toa POS to find out (and if necessary, receive) his/her winnings. A ticketmay be allowed to be redeemed after a predetermined period of time afterthe drawing independent of whether the player has played the game. Aticket may be able to be redeemed after a predetermined period of time,from almost immediately, seconds after, days after, or any predeterminedtime. For tickets with results dependent upon results of a particularKeno game or other event, the ticket may not be redeemed until after theevent has passed.

Finally, after play of the online game, the player is permitted tovalidate the ticket at any POS location (e.g., 501 (for example, alottery agent, casino, or other gaming establishment) to redeem his/herwinnings as indicated during the online portion of the game. Accordingto one embodiment, players are permitted to redeem their winnings onlyafter playing the online portion of the game. The player, by playing theonline portion of the game, sets status information at the server (e.g.,server 503). When the player attempts to redeem the ticket at the POS(e.g., 501), the status information may be checked, and the player ispermitted to redeem his/her winnings. To this end, server 503 maycommunicate information back to server 502 relating to game play.

For instance, server 503 may collect information that indicates thesequence of game play performed at the client, and other player trackinginformation. In one example, tickets may be associated with a particularplayer, and the player may be awarded loyalty points or other credit forplaying the game.

Taking a slot machine game, a player is issued a ticket at a POS to playone or more instances (e.g., spins) of the slot machine game. The ticketindicates an access code, and the player uses this access code to gainaccess to the system (e.g., from a host coupled to server 503 throughthe Internet). The player enters the access code in a user interface,and, once validated, is permitted to play the slot machine game.Optionally, the player is permitted to play, based on a single accesscode (and ticket), any one of a number of games available from server503. Such an option may allow a player to play different games for eachgame instance associated with the ticket.

According to one aspect of the present invention, an additionalopportunity to win is provided to the player. In one such opportunity,the opportunity is presented outside of the play of the game (e.g., theprimary game such as a slot machine game, bingo game, etc.). Because theopportunity is presented outside of the play of the game, there areseveral benefits to such a win opportunity. For instance, in the casewherein the game is a game of skill, the player's lack of skill duringplay of the game may not provide a game playing program the opportunityto reveal to the player his/her predetermined prize. For instance, if aplayer is predetermined to win $5, and the player plays a bingo gamewherein the player is required to declare “Bingo,” and the player doesnot declare “Bingo” and therefore loses the game, the game program maynot have the opportunity to award the player the $5 winnings associatedwith the ticket. Also, there may be other situations wherein the gameplaying program may not have the opportunity to reveal the predeterminedprize to the player. Thus, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, it may be beneficial to provide an additional opportunityoutside of normal game play to reveal a prize to the player. To thisend, there may be additional games and/or opportunities for a player toreveal a prize. These games or other win opportunities may be presentedat various points during the tournament (e.g., at predetermined times,randomly during game play, etc.). In one example, there may be gamesinterspersed between game instances (e.g., during downtimes in gameplay) where the player is permitted to play another game. For instance,the player may be prompted to open a fortune cookie or other item toreveal a prize, spin a slot machine, or play any other type of game.

Further, such an additional opportunity simplifies game development, asthe game need not be designed to force a win for the player withinnormal game play. That is, the player may be permitted to lose eventhough the predetermined outcome indicates that the player has won thegame. As a result, this additional opportunity allows the game operatorto provide a game that provides a true game result rather than a fixedresult to trigger a reveal to the player.

Also, such an additional opportunity may be beneficial, for example, inproviding the predetermined outcome to the player. For instance, in thecase where it may be difficult for the game playing program to reveal aparticular prize to the player, the game playing program may presentsuch a prize with the additional opportunity. In one example, there maybe certain combinations of results that cannot be accounted for by a paytable associated with a game. In a specific example of a slot machinegame, a prize remaining to be revealed to the player during a final spinof the slot machine is $7, but there are no pay table entries and nocorresponding slot machine game result that can be arranged by the gameplaying program to provide a $7 win to the player. Thus, rather thanreveal the $7 win during the slot machine game (where there is no suchpay table outcome), the $7 winnings may be revealed to the playeroutside the play of the slot machine game. Thus, game development issimplified in that the game need not account for all possiblecombinations of game play, and all possible combinations of prizeawards. In particular, the additional win opportunity allows the gameprogram to account for any difficult game results. Further, theadditional win opportunity permits different types of games that do notlend themselves to gaming format to be used as the primary game (e.g.,video games, trivia games, etc.).

Further, such an additional win opportunity may be used for awardingother prizes not associated with the game, such as, for example, rewardspoints, coupons, discounts or other promotional items. For instance, inaddition to a prize allocated to a ticket according to a paytable, thegame operator may associate an additional prize with the ticket. Thisassociation may be performed, for example, in a database of a server(e.g., server 103).

One example of such an additional opportunity may be presented to theplayer as a separate or a “second chance” game. This separate game maybe played in addition to the primary game (e.g., one played on acomputer system to reveal the result of the primary game). This game maytake the form of a side bet or wager that is played along with theprimary game. So, in the example above where the player fails to receivea predetermined outcome in the primary game (e.g., a slot machine game,bingo game, or any other type of game), the side bet is arranged toprovide the additional outcome.

The following is a specific example of a separate game that may beplayed along with a primary game. For instance, the separate game may bea number matching game (e.g., a daily number-type game) where the playerchooses numbers and the numbers are compared to a set of numbers drawnby the game playing computer system. For example, the selected numbermay be a four-digit or other length number. In one example game format,the player may be permitted to choose numbers prior to play of theprimary game. Alternatively, the game program may automatically assignthe numbers to the player (e.g., in a random manner such as a quickpick). The player may be presented the opportunity to select numbers orhave the game playing computer select numbers for the player. The playerthen plays the primary game (e.g., a slot machine game, bingo game, orany other type of game) in which the player is presented one or more winopportunities.

In one example, the player is predetermined to win a prize (e.g., $5).The game playing system may provide an opportunity for a $5 win duringthe game, but the player fails to activate the win opportunity (e.g., bylosing the game, by not calling “Bingo” in time, etc.). In one example,the game playing system does not force a win for the player (e.g., byfixing results of a game, instance, or win opportunity within the game).Rather, the player loses the game and/or fails to activate the winopportunity.

In one specific example second chance game using selected numbers, atthe end of the game, the game playing system may cause the player'sselected numbers to be displayed, then the system magically draws fournumbers (e.g., similar to a keno-style draw), and the person obtainsmatches equivalent to the $5 win.

In another example system, when playing multiple games per session, theselected numbers may be valid for all games played in the session.Optionally, the player may be permitted to change the selected numbersfor each game. Such a change may be performed using a control in thegame interface. Further, the selected numbers may be displayed to theplayer in a predetermined area in the game interface.

Although a number drawing may be used, other second chance games may beused. For instance, the player's numbers may be applied to a safe orother container type combination. If the safe opens, the player wins theprize revealed by its opening. In another example, the container may notcontain (or reveal) a prize.

FIG. 6 shows an example game interface 600 according to one embodimentof the present invention. According to one embodiment, the game includesat least two levels, the first of which includes a slot machine-typegame. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the slotmachine-type game is presented to the player by a computer system in aninterface 600. In particular, in a display of a computer system uponwhich the game is played, a slot machine representation may be renderedin interface 600, with the slot machine having reels having one or moreindicia (e.g., indicator 603) located on one or more reels (e.g., items601A-601C). The indicia may be, for example, characters, items, or anyother type of elements suitable for use in a slot machine.

A set of indicia across the reels (e.g., reels 601A-601C) along one ormore lines (e.g., lines 604) may correspond to a combination of indiciathat are matched to points in a pay table (e.g., pay table 608). The paytable may indicate, for instance, a correlation between combinations ofindicia and awarded point (or credit) totals. In one example above, suchindicia may include types of fruits, when matched in a particularcombination, yield a particular award. If the indicia across one or morelines match that indicated by the pay table, the player may be awarded acorresponding number of points indicated by the pay table.

The slot machine representation may also include a spin control 602which may be any type of control (e.g., a button, level, etc.) that,when activated, causes the slot machine reels to spin. Further,interface 600 may also include a spin indicator 607 that indicates thenumber of spins remaining for the player. As discussed, the player maybe awarded a finite number of spins to accumulate points. Thus,interface 600 may include a counter 603 that indicates the currentnumber of accrued points or other credit won by the player. Also,interface 600 may include an indicator 609 that shows the number ofpoints or credits needed to progress to the second level game.

Optionally, interface 600 may include a status of a tournament optionselected by the player. For instance, the interface may indicate whethera tournament option was selected at the time of ticket purchase, alongwith an indication of the status of the tournament (e.g., the currentleader(s) of the tournament, the time remaining in the tournament,etc.).

The type and layout of the slot machine is not limited to the type andlayout shown in FIG. 6. Rather, it should be appreciated that the slotmachine may be any type and layout, and the invention is not limited toany particular slot machine.

The slot machine game ends when the player achieves enough points orother credit to proceed on to the second level game, or when the playerruns out of spins. As an additional option, a player may bypass play ofthe slot machine game by selecting control 604 within interface 600.Selection of element 604 may cause the slot machine game to end.Optionally, selection of element 604 may allow the player to progress tothe second level game.

As discussed, credits may be accumulated in the first level of the gameand when a predetermined number of credits is attained (or the playerselects control 604), the second level game is activated. According toone embodiment, the outcome of the second level game determines whetherthe player wins a prize.

The second level of the game may include a wheel (e.g., wheel 606) orother indication capable of indicating whether a prize has been won (ornot) by the player. The second level game may or may not be shown withinthe same interface as the first level game. The interface of the secondlevel game may include an indication (e.g., prize indicator 610) ofavailable prizes, which may be placed on sections of a wheel 606. Thewheel is spun, and the wheel stops on a particular prize indicator whichindicates the prize won for that particular game instance associatedwith the first and second level game instance. The prize won may beshown by a pointer 605 that points to a particular prize indication onwheel 606.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the second levelgame may not always be attained from play in the first level. Rather,play in the first level may be bypassed by the player, and the playermay be permitted to play in the second level. In one example secondlevel game, player does not have choice in proceeding to second levelplay. In another embodiment, the player is not provided a choice incontinuing first level play.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the player doesnot make choices in the second level play. That is, the prize wheel orother indication has no other inputs other than the indication to beginthe second level of play. The second level of play may be initiated, forinstance, upon receiving an indication from the first level game that aparticular point or credit total is achieved.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first level game doesnot have any prize associated with it. More specifically, creditsaccrued in the first level game cannot be translated into a payout fromthe first level game. Rather, the play of the first level gamedetermines when and if the second level game is played. According to oneembodiment, the result of the second level alone determines whether aplayer wins, ties or loses a particular game instance.

After play of the second level game, game play is returned to anotherinstance of the first level game (e.g., the slot machine). The playermay, however, choose to play a different game (e.g., a card game orother game) at the conclusion of any particular game instance. In thecase of the slot machine game, a game instance may be concluded afterthe end of the second level game. According to another embodiment, theplay of each game instance is independent of all other game instances.According to another embodiment, the outcome of a particular gameinstance is predetermined.

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is realized thatthe time at which tickets are activated (and therefore, may be played)is important. In the case of a casino-based game, where tickets areissued at the casino, it may be beneficial to include a delay betweenthe purchase of a ticket and a possible redemption of the ticket so thatthe game play associated with the ticket does not compete against othergames offered by the casino (e.g., floor games). For example, in thecase of a slot machine game, it may be preferable that such a game beactivated after the player leaves the casino, or otherwise is notplayable while in the casino so as not to compete with other types ofslot machine games or other game types offered by the casino.

Further, another benefit of introducing a delay between ticket issuanceand activation includes increasing the likelihood that the player playsthe game at another location (e.g., at home), requiring the return ofthe player to the ticket redemption location to redeem his/her winnings.Because the player needs to return to the redemption location (which maybe a casino), the possibility that the player will purchase additionaltickets or play other types of games offered at the redemption locationis increased.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the result of thesecond level game (e.g., a prize wheel result) may be predetermined,whereas the first level game result (e.g., result of each individualspin) is determined using some random number generator (or RNG). In thismanner, the player is provided a predetermined result, but the game playthat occurs in the first level game is a random number-generatedexperience which is more similar to actual play in a casino or otheronline gaming experience. However, because it may be desired to exposemore players to the second level game (which may not be reached in apure RNG experience), it may be beneficial to provide a predetermined(or scripted) outcome for at least a portion of the first level game soas to allow the player to proceed to the second level game.

According to one embodiment, a player is only permitted to play oneinstance of the second level game. In this case, the player usesprovided spins to reach the second level game, and once reached, theplayer is provided a single result associated with the game. Any spinsremaining after the player reaches the second level game are lost. Afterplay of the second level game, the online portion of the game is over.

Alternatively, the player may be permitted to play further instances ofthe slot machine game, with each level of the slot machine game leadingto a second level wherein prizes are revealed. These intermediate prizeamounts that are revealed with each instance of the slot machine game,as discussed above, may be stored in a database of the server, andprovided to the client prior to or during game play. Alternatively,intermediate prize amounts may be determined at the client in a randommanner (e.g., by randomly selecting a possible combination ofintermediate prize amounts that total the overall prize awarded to theplayer). In another example, a game may be determined dynamically by thegame system or client based on one or more rules. These rules may betailored so that the overall result is revealed by the game system in aninteresting way.

For instance, the ticket may have an overall prize value of $50, and theprize awarded at each instance of the slot machine game may accumulateto form the $50 prize. There may be a finite number of combinationsbased on the number of game instances to achieve a $50 prize, and theactual game experience presented to the player may be a random selectionof the finite outcomes. In any case, the result of each game instance iseither stored at the server or is determined randomly or dynamically bythe client as discussed above.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the points awarded forparticular combinations of indicia of the slot machine game may bechanged according to the spin number so as to increase the game “drama”to maintain player interest. For instance, as the spin number isincreased, the points awarded for a particular combination of indiciamay also increase. In another example, particular paylines may also beincreased or activated based on the spin number, providing an increasedlevel of excitement for the player.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a slot machinegame is conducted that may include the following additional aspects,either alone or in combination:

-   -   The slot machine game may include three reels.    -   Each reel of the slot machine comprises three spots, for a total        of nine spots visible.    -   There may be provided, with a particular ticket, a finite number        of spins (e.g., 15 spins).    -   Credits are earned according to a slot paytable (e.g., 1 credit,        2 credits, 3 credits) which may be varied based on the spin        number.    -   Particular paylines may be activated according to the spin        number.    -   The player selects a control (e.g., a spin button) that causes        the reels to spin. At the same time, a pay line is highlighted        indicating it is the active pay line for the current spin.    -   Only matches on the active pay line for a particular spin can        receive any points.    -   The pay line remains highlighted until the reels stop spinning.    -   If a match is made on an active pay line, the line flashes        yellow and the corresponding section of the pay table (e.g., a        points table that associates combinations to points) flashes to        indicate the match made.    -   If a player meets a particular credit threshold (or        predetermined number of points), a prize wheel game is        activated.    -   A counter presented to the player increments the total value of        the points earned.    -   In one example, there are a total of five active pay lines.    -   In another example, the slot machine game cycles through pay        lines (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6) in the following order:        -   Middle across        -   Bottom across        -   Top across        -   Diagonal from the top left corner        -   Diagonal from the top right corner    -   The prize wheel either lands on a prize or indicates that no        prize has been won.    -   If the credit threshold is reached, the slot machine game ends        and the player is taken to the second level game.    -   If the player selects a particular control (e.g., a button) in        the game interface, the slot machine game ends, and the player        proceeds to the second level game.    -   When the player accrues 1000 points, a screen drops down over        the slot machine portion of the game. The player is informed        they will be proceeding to second level game (e.g., they will be        spinning the prize wheel).    -   As soon as 1000 points are earned, the user is taken to the        second level game. In one example game, there is only one        instance of the second level game. In this example, any unused        spins are lost when the player proceeds to the second level        game.    -   If a player fails to accrue 1000 points with the spins allotted,        the game ends.    -   The second level game is a prize wheel that, when spun,        indicates that a cash amount or other prize type is won, or        indicates that no prize is awarded.    -   The player selects a control to start the prize wheel to spin.    -   Each segment of the wheel includes a dollar value or other prize        indication on the segment.    -   Whatever segment the wheel stops on, the player wins that dollar        amount or other prize indication as a prize.    -   At the conclusion of the game, the player is presented an        indication that the second level game is over and an indication        of any prize(s) awarded.    -   In one example, no one point award associated with a spin        provides enough points to proceed to the second level game by        itself.    -   In another example, no one slot indicia provides enough points        to proceed to the second level game by itself.    -   In yet another example, no one slot combination (e.g., three of        a kind) provides enough points to proceed to the second level        game by itself.    -   In a game where the number of pay lines and the number of        credits are increased with increased spin number, it is ensured        that the last (e.g., the 15^(th) spin of 15 total spins        associated with the ticket) spin cannot take a player from zero        credits to enough credits to proceed to the second level game.    -   In another example, the payout of prizes is not tied to the        number of spins provided in the first level game, or the number        of credits or points accrued in the first level game.    -   The initial ticket issued may be used at a redemption center for        claiming any awarded prize(s).    -   In another example, the result of any of the first level game        may be determined by an RNG and odds at the moment of play, or        may be determined at the time that a lottery ticket is printed.    -   The overall result (e.g., payout) of purchasing a ticket may be        predetermined (as in a scratch or other type of instant lottery        game0 or may be determined by a later event (such as a lottery        or Keno draw).

According to one embodiment, the game includes a single-level game, suchas a slot machine-type game. Prizes may be awarded to the player in oneor more game instances of this single-level game. FIG. 7 shows oneexample game interface 700 representing a single-level game inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Moreparticularly, the slot machine-type game is presented to the player by acomputer system in an interface 700. In particular, in a display of acomputer system upon which the game is played, a slot machinerepresentation may be rendered in interface 700, with the slot machinehaving reels having one or more indicia (e.g., indicia 702) located onone or more reels (e.g., reel 707). The indicia may be, for example,characters, items, or any other type of elements suitable for use in aslot machine.

A set of indicia across the reels along one or more lines (e.g., payline704) may correspond to a combination of indicia that are matched topoints in a pay table (not shown). Although the slot machine shown inFIG. 7 shows three (3) reels, it should be appreciated that the numberof reels used may be any number. The pay table may indicate, forinstance, a correlation between combinations of indicia along one ormore paylines and one or more prizes. In one example, such indicia mayinclude elements, when matched in a particular combination along aparticular payline, yield a prize. If the indicia across one or morelines match that indicated by the pay table, the player may be awarded acorresponding prize indicated by the pay table.

The slot machine representation may also include a spin control 701which may be any type of control (e.g., a button, level, etc.) that,when activated, causes the slot machine reels to spin. Further,interface 700 may also include a spin indicator 709 that indicates thenumber of spins remaining for the player to play. As discussed, theplayer may be awarded a finite number of spins to win prizes. Thus,interface 700 may include an indicator 708 that indicates the currentamount of accrued winnings won by the player. Also, interface 700 mayinclude an indicator 705 that indicates whether the current spin resulttranslates to a win for the user according to entries in the pay table.

In one embodiment, the first level game includes a pay table thatassociates combinations achieved in the slot machine game to prizes won.For instance, particular outcomes as represented in the pay table may beassociated with a winning combination appearing on a selected pay line.More particularly, if a combination achieved along a selected pay linematches an entry in the pay table, the player wins the correspondingprize indicated by the pay table. If not, the player does not win anyprize associated with that game instance (or selected pay line).

The type and layout of the slot machine is not limited to the type andlayout shown in FIG. 7. Rather, it should be appreciated that the slotmachine may be any type and layout, and the invention is not limited toany particular slot machine.

The slot machine game ends when the player runs out of spins. As anadditional option, a player may bypass play of the slot machine game byselecting a control (e.g., a “QUIT” button, not shown) within interface700. Selection of such a control may cause the slot machine game to endand reveal any results (e.g., any prizes associated with the game to beawarded to the player).

As discussed, prizes may be awarded in the first level game. In oneexample, one or more win opportunities may be associated with the firstlevel game. The win opportunities may be revealed to the player when,for example, a particular reel outcome is achieved, a winningcombination is achieved along one or more pay lines, a particular pointtotal is achieved, or other aspect is achieved in any of the game,either collectively or individually. Also, in interface 700, there maybe an indicator that shows the player any prizes he/she may have wonduring play of the first level game. As discussed above, results of winopportunities may be stored in a server and downloaded to a game-playingcomputer system prior to play of the game, may be determined dynamicallyby the game-playing computer system, or may be determined in any othermanner.

As discussed above, the player may be permitted to select on or morepaylines each of which may be associated with a win opportunitypresented to the player in a single spin of a slot machine game. FIG. 8shows one example interface 800 that permits selection of multiplepaylines. According to one aspect of the present invention, the playeris permitted, within an interface (e.g., interface 800) to select one ormore pay lines in the slot machine game. Upon selection of a “spin”control, it is revealed whether the selected paylines include a winningcombination. Thus the player has some control of how quickly the gamereveals the predetermined outcomes.

Interface 800 may also include a representation of a single-level game,such as a slot machine-type game. Prizes may be awarded to the player inone or more game instances of this single-level game. The slotmachine-type game is presented to the player by a computer system in aninterface 800. In particular, in a display of a computer system uponwhich the game is played, a slot machine representation may be renderedin interface 800, with the slot machine having reels having one or moreindicia (e.g., indicia 802) located on one or more reels (e.g., reel807). The indicia may be, for example, characters, items, or any othertype of elements suitable for use in a slot machine.

A set of indicia across the reels along one or more lines (e.g., payline804) may correspond to a combination of indicia that are matched topoints in a pay table (not shown). Although the slot machine shown inFIG. 8 shows five (5) reels, it should be appreciated that the number ofreels used may be any number. The pay table may indicate, for instance,a correlation between combinations of indicia along one or more paylinesand one or more prizes. In one example, such indicia may includeelements, when matched in a particular combination along a particularpayline, yield a prize. If the indicia across one or more lines matchthat indicated by the pay table, the player may be awarded acorresponding prize indicated by the pay table.

The slot machine representation may also include a spin control 801which may be any type of control (e.g., a button, level, etc.) that,when activated, causes the slot machine reels to spin. Further,interface 800 may also include a spin indicator 809 that indicates thenumber of spins remaining for the player to play. As discussed, theplayer may be awarded a finite number of spins to win prizes. Thus,interface 800 may include an indicator 801 that indicates the currentamount of accrued winnings won by the player. Also, interface 800 mayinclude an indicator (not shown) that indicates whether the current spinresult translates to a win for the user according to entries in the paytable.

In one embodiment, the first level game includes a pay table thatassociates combinations achieved in the slot machine game to prizes won.For instance, particular outcomes as represented in the pay table may beassociated with a winning combination appearing on a selected pay line.More particularly, if a combination achieved along a selected pay linematches an entry in the pay table, the player wins the correspondingprize indicated by the pay table. If not, the player does not win anyprize associated with that game instance (or selected pay line).

Also, interface 800 may include additional controls and indicationsrelating to the selection of paylines by the player. For instance,interface 800 may include an indicator 808 that indicates the currentnumber of paylines chosen. Interface 800 may also include controls(e.g., controls 810, 811) for selecting paylines. In particular, control811 (e.g., a button) may be selected by the player to select one or morepaylines. In one specific example, the player, by progressivelyselecting control 811, may progressively select multiple paylines. Thatis, with each selection of control 811, an additional payline may beselected. The player may revert back to the selection of a singlepayline, for example, by cycling the number of selected paylines (e.g.,by selecting an additional payline after the maximum number of paylineshave been selected).

Another selection control 810 may be provided that permits the selectionof a maximum number of paylines within the slot machine game. Moreparticularly, when selected, control 810 may select the maximum numberof paylines available to be played in the current slot machine gameinstance.

FIG. 9 shows an example interface 900 including selection of more thanone payline (e.g., selected paylines 901A-901E). For instance, interface900 may include multiple paylines from which the player may choose toplay within any particular game instance. In the example shown in FIG.9, the interface may include five (5) paylines that may be selectivelychosen by the player (e.g., using controls 902, 903). It should beappreciated, however, that the game may include any number of paylines,and that the invention is not limited to the number of paylines shown.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, if more than onepayline is chosen, the number of “spins” or game instances to be playedmay be reduced, thus permitting the player to selectively control theoverall length of the game. In one example, the number of paylineschosen (e.g., as shown by indicator 904) may reduce the number ofremaining spins (e.g., as shown by indicator 905) by an equal amount.However, it should be appreciated that the number of spins may bereduced by any other ratio.

In one example, different paylines may have higher payouts, and thus theplayer may wish to choose multiple paylines with the prospect of winninga higher-level prize. However, according to one embodiment, the resultof playing a particular game instance presented to the player may beadjusted to account for the selection of multiple paylines. Moreparticularly, a game program that presents the result may dynamicallydetermine a result that agrees with the selected paylines, and maydynamically allocate winnings among the selected paylines. As discussed,the overall result of the game may be predetermined, and the gameprogram may allocate portions of any overall winnings to differentpaylines. Such an allocation may be performed, for example, based on aset of rules, in a random manner, etc.

The type and layout of the slot machine is not limited to the type andlayout shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. Rather, it should be appreciated that theslot machine may be any type and layout, and the invention is notlimited to any particular slot machine.

The slot machine game ends when the player runs out of spins. As anadditional option, a player may bypass play of the slot machine game byselecting a control (e.g., a “QUIT” button) within interface 800, 900.Selection of such a control may cause the slot machine game to end andreveal any results (e.g., any prizes associated with the game to beawarded to the player).

As discussed, a player may be permitted to select one or more paylinesto receive an outcome of a win opportunity. According to one aspect ofthe present invention, the player is presented an indication of a “nearmiss”, in that one or more paylines selected is close to a winning payline (e.g., the player selected the wrong pay line). As it is understoodthat the player may select any pay line within the first level game,prizes associated with unselected pay lines revealed to the player uponselection of the final pay line may be varied to create the indicationof the near miss. For instance, the game playing system may determine apresentation of one or more prizes in an unselected pay line so that theplayer feels that he/she lost by a narrow margin (e.g., by selecting thewrong pay line). Rather, the outcome of the selection according to oneembodiment is predetermined. That is, the player may select any payline(s) and still obtain the same result.

The revealed prize distribution among the pay lines presented to theplayer may be different, however, depending on the pay lines chosen bythe player. In this manner, the player feels as if the pay lines (andtherefore their corresponding prizes) are predetermined, and that theirselection of a particular pay line had an affect on the outcome of thefirst level game. However, the player's selection has no affect on theoutcome of the first level game according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

After play of a particular game instance, game play is returned toanother game (e.g., a first level game such as a slot machine game). Theplayer may, however, choose to play a different game (e.g., a card gameor other game) at the conclusion of any particular game instance. Theplayer may be permitted to play further instances of the slot machinegame, with each slot machine game being capable of revealing any awardedprizes. These intermediate prize amounts that are revealed with eachinstance of slot machine game, as discussed above, may be stored in adatabase of the server, and provided to the client prior to or duringgame play. Alternatively, intermediate prize amounts may be determinedat the client in a random manner (e.g., by randomly selecting a possiblecombination of intermediate prize amounts that total the overall prizeawarded to the player). In another example, a game may be determineddynamically by the game system or client based on one or more rules.These rules may be tailored so that the overall result is revealed bythe game system in an interesting way.

For instance, the ticket may have an overall prize value of $50, and theprize awarded at each instance of the slot machine game (or each spin,card, or other game element with which a win opportunity may beassociated) may accumulate to form the $50 prize. There may be a finitenumber of combinations based on the number of game instances or othergame element to achieve a $50 prize, and the actual game experiencepresented to the player may be a random selection of the finiteoutcomes. In any case, the result of each game instance is either storedat the server or is determined randomly or dynamically by the client asdiscussed above.

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is realized thatthe time at which tickets are activated (and therefore, may be played)is important. In the case of a casino-based game, where tickets areissued at the casino, it may be beneficial to include a delay betweenthe purchase of a ticket and a possible redemption of the ticket so thatthe game play associated with the ticket does not compete against othergames offered by the casino (e.g., floor games). For example, in thecase of a slot machine game, it may be preferable that such a game beactivated after the player leaves the casino, or otherwise is notplayable while in the casino so as not to compete with other types ofslot machine games or other game types offered by the casino.

Further, another benefit of introducing a delay between ticket issuanceand activation includes increasing the likelihood that the player playsthe game at another location (e.g., at home), requiring the return ofthe player to the ticket redemption location to redeem his/her winnings.Because the player needs to return to the redemption location (which maybe a casino), the possibility that the player will purchase additionaltickets or play other types of games offered at the redemption locationis increased.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a slot machinegame is conducted that may include the following additional aspects,either alone or in combination:

-   -   According to one embodiment, the slot machine game includes a        basic slot machine representation presented in a computer        interface, the game having realistic sounds and animation of the        slot machine reels.    -   In another example, the slot machine game includes a        traditional-looking paytable having odds of winning similar to        conventional slot machine games.    -   In one example, the slot machine may include three or more        (e.g., five) reels, having one or more paylines.    -   In one specific example game format, the active payline may        always include the center payline.    -   Upper and lower portions of the reels (e.g., indicia appearing        above and below the center payline) may be presented in the        interface. These upper and lower portions may be used in other        paylines (e.g., in other rows, or in paylines that traverse        rows). Indicia shown in these portions (e.g., icons) may be        shown differently than indicia shown in the center payline        (e.g., icons may be half visible). Icons or other indicia shown        in these portions may be animated to show the reels spinning        when the spin control is selected.    -   One or more paylines may be selected by the player for play in        any particular spin of the slot machine game.    -   In one example, the slot machine game is a single-stage game        without bonus rounds and/or bonus games.    -   According to one embodiment, the paytable may include any number        of paylines. However, in one specific example, a paytable may be        used that includes up to 15 entries. If less than 15 paylines        are used, the winning combination table may be adjusted to        reflect the decreased number of paylines. However, padding may        be used (e.g., 13 entries for a 15-line paytable).    -   The game includes an interface in which the user selects a        control (e.g., a lever, button, etc.) to make reels spin.    -   Within the interface, the game includes an indication that        identifies when a player receives a win on a particular payline.    -   The game interface may also include an indication of how many        spins are remaining for the player to play.    -   According to one example simplified game format, the game does        not support split wins. However, other example game formats may        support split wins.    -   In another game format, the game presents a near-miss when        presenting a losing outcome. For example, in a three-reel slot        machine game, a near miss may be represented by the first two        reels stopping on icons or other indicia that are part of a        winning combination, but the indicia of the third reel does not        complete the winning combination. In another example, weightings        may be used (real and simulated) to simulate near-misses and        provide a more compelling game experience.    -   There may be a predetermined number of icons (e.g., eight (8))        used in the slot machine game. In one example, there may be        common icons between different game versions (e.g., casino and        lottery versions), but there may be specific branded versions of        icons unique to the game version. In one example, the unique        icon represents the top-winning pay combination. In another        example, the unique, game-themed icon animates when the icon        forms part of a winning outcome. In another example, other icons        may animate when they are part of a winning outcome. In yet        another example, priority of animating the icons includes        starting with the highest value on the pay table and working        down.    -   The paytable may be accessible to the player via a button on the        game interface.    -   In another example game format, the order that the icons appear        in the payline need to match the order depicted in the paytable.    -   In one specific example, the slot machine game may include a 5×3        video slot machine game. The 5×3 video slot machine game may        include fifteen “cells” in which indicia (e.g., icons) can be        presented. A payline may be formed using any set of cells. For        example, a payline may be formed in rows or columns of the        cells, or may traverse between cells of any row or column.        According to one example game format, there may be multiple,        intersecting paylines that are active within a particular        “spin.” In a 5×3 video slot game, there may be a larger number        of icons (e.g., twelve (12) icons) used in the game.    -   In another example format, with each play of a game instance,        the player is provided a fixed number of spins of the slot        machine. The player can use one spin at a time or use multiple        spins simultaneously (e.g., activating more than one payline at        a time).    -   When the user is out of spins, the game is over.    -   In one specific example, the game may store a counter that        tracks the number of plays N that are provided to the player. As        the player selects paylines, the number of plays is decreased        based on the number of paylines chosen. By selecting more        paylines within a particular spin, the number of plays N can be        decreased more quickly (and the number of “spins” played by the        player are therefore decreased). When the counter N equals a        value of zero, the game is over.    -   In one example game, a control may be provided to select        paylines. In one specific example, the control may include a        button that cycles through the available paylines each time it        is pressed. More particularly, each time the button is pressed,        an additional payline is selected. In one specific game format,        there may be at least one default payline that is used for each        spin. Optionally, there may be an indicator that shows the        number of paylines selected.    -   In another example game format, another control may be provided        that, when activated, selects all available paylines within a        particular slot machine game. In another example format,        selection of the control causes the reels to spin.    -   Depending on the number of paylines selected, a value presented        by the spin indicator is decreased by an appropriate amount        (e.g., by the number of paylines selected).    -   When a prize is won, a prize indicator is presented to the        player that accumulates prizes won during play of the game,        along with an indicator of any current prizes won. In one        example, a free spin may be one of the prizes won, and if this        is the case, the spin indicator value is increased by the number        of spins awarded to the player.    -   At the conclusion of the game, the player is presented an        indication that the game is over and an indication of any        prize(s) awarded.

FIG. 10 shows an example process 1000 for conducting a tournament typegame according to one embodiment of the present invention. At block1001, process 1000 begins. As discussed, a player may purchase one ormore plays of an online game (e.g., a slot machine-type game). Theplayer may be presented, at the time of purchase, an option to enter atournament type game relating to one or more online game instances. Atblock 1002, the player purchases a ticket or other game piece, and anentry for the player is made in the tournament. In the case of atournament having an outcome driven by a Keno drawing, a number of setsof Keno numbers may be chosen and associated with the ticket. This maybe accomplished, for example, by associating the option with a serialnumber or other identifying information of the ticket.

At block 1003, outcomes of the game instances and the tournament aredetermined and are then made available to a game server, after which theplayer may play the online portion of the game in which results arerevealed. In the case of a Keno-driven system, a Keno system may drawnumbers, compare the drawn numbers to the selected sets of numbersassociated with the ticket, and send results of the draw to the gameserver. These results may indicate, for example, which game instanceshave won, how much was won, etc. Further, the Keno system may grade thesets of numbers of each ticket (or player) associated with thetournament, and determine any tournament winner(s).

At block 1004, the player may initiate play of the online game (orseries of games). As the player plays each game instance, there may beone or more opportunities for the player to win a prize. In oneembodiment of the present invention, winnings in individual gameinstances are used to advance the player within the tournament. Anindication of the status of the tournament may be presented to theplayer within the interface (e.g., a display of a leader board). Afterthe player plays through the one or more game instances associated withthe tournament, the player may be presented the result of the tournamentat block 1005. At block 1006, process 1000 ends.

FIG. 11 shows one embodiment of an interface 1100 that may be used toplay a tournament type game. In particular, interface 1100 includes agame play interface that displays the online game to the player. Theplayer may select one or more controls to operate the online game, andin the example shown, the player plays a video poker game. The interfacealso includes what is referred to herein as a “leader board” thatdisplays the state of the tournament. For instance, the leader board maydisplay the current leading players, the scores of each of the players,and the time remaining in the tournament. In one embodiment, the playersmay be represented by nicknames, user names or other identifier in theleader board.

Because the tournament, according to one embodiment, has a predeterminedstart and end, the leader board may present information relating to thecurrent state of the tournament, such as a beginning time, elapsed time,and time remaining in the tournament. The leader board may also displayany prizes awarded for winning the tournament. The leader board may alsodisplay the running score of each of the tope players. This score may bea total of winnings (e.g., money) won in one or more of the gameinstances associated with the tournament, but it may be points accruedor some other indication. The leader board may be refreshed at regularintervals throughout the tournament period. In one example, the leaderboard may be updated as game instances are completed, at a predeterminedrefresh rate (e.g., 5 seconds), or based on any other parameter.

Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of thisinvention, it is to be appreciated that various alterations,modifications and improvements will readily occur to those skilled inthe art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intendedto be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spiritand scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description is byway of example only.

1. A method for playing a game of chance comprising an act of:permitting a player to purchase an entry into one or more games ofchance, the one or more games of chance associated with a tournament;performing, in an online game, a revealing of a result to the player ofthe one or more games of chance; and indicating, to the player, a statusof the tournament.
 2. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising an act of issuing a ticket to a player, the ticket includinga code printed on a surface of the ticket, the ticket being associatedwith a plurality of results.
 3. The method according to claim 2, furthercomprising an act of providing for the player to play another game on adifferent medium than the issued ticket, wherein the plurality ofresults are revealed to the player.
 4. The method according to claim 3,further comprising an act of revealing the plurality of results duringplay of an online game.
 5. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising an act of displaying an interface comprising one or moreplayer identifiers each of which represent a player and a correspondingranking of each player in the tournament.
 6. The method according toclaim 1, wherein the result is predetermined.
 7. The method according toclaim 1, further comprising an act of selecting a plurality of sets ofnumbers associated with the entry into the one or more games of chance.8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising an act ofassociating the tournament with an identifier of the entry into the oneor more games of chance.
 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein theidentifier of the entry is an identifier of a ticket issued to theplayer at a point of sale (POS).
 10. The method according to claim 5,further comprising an act of displaying the interface in a display of acomputer system.
 11. The method according to claim 1, further comprisingan act of automatically playing at least one instance of the online gameif the player does not play the game instance within a predeterminedtime.
 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the online gamebegins at a predetermined time.
 13. The method according to claim 1,wherein the online game ends at a predetermined time.
 14. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein at least one instance of the online gamebegins at a predetermined time.
 15. The method according to claim 13,further comprising an act of indicating, to the player, a result of thetournament after the online game ends.
 16. The method according to claim1, wherein the online game includes a slot machine game.
 17. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the online game includes a poker game. 18.The method according to claim 1, wherein the online game includes a gameof skill.
 19. The method according to claim 1, wherein the act ofindicating includes an act of displaying the indication in a display ofa game-playing computer system.
 20. The method according to claim 1,further comprising an act of providing, by a first server associatedwith a first game, a result associated with the game of chance.
 21. Themethod according to claim 20, further comprising an act of storing, in amemory of a computer system, the result associated with the game ofchance.
 22. The method according to claim 21, further comprising an actof associating the result with an indication of the ticket.
 23. Themethod according to claim 7, further comprising acts of: performing adrawing and determining a set of winning numbers; comparing the sets ofnumbers to the set of winning numbers; determining whether each of theset of numbers wins the player a prize; determining a total of prizeswon by each of the set of numbers; and determining a result of thetournament based on whether the determined total meets at least onecriteria.
 24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the sets ofnumbers are sets of Keno numbers, and wherein the act of determining aresult of the tournament based on whether the determined total isperformed by a Keno system.
 25. The method according to claim 24,further comprising an act of sending the result of the tournament to agame-playing computer system.
 26. The method according to claim 25,further comprising an act of displaying the result of the tournament ona display of the game-playing computer system.
 27. The method accordingto claim 23, wherein the act of determining the result of the tournamentfurther comprises an act of determining the result based on whether thedetermined total exceeds respective totals of other players in thetournament.
 28. The method according to claim 23, wherein the act ofdetermining the result of the tournament further comprises an act ofdetermining the result based on whether the determined total exceeds aminimum amount.